Welcome to the Tudors Dynasty podcast’s miniseries on queenship! I’m your host Dr. Johanna Strong, and in this series, we’ll be traveling through time and around the world to learn more about global queenship. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Ellie Woodacre and Amy Saunders for an introduction to queenship more generally and to…

Welcome to “This Week in Royal History,” where we take a step back in time to revisit the pivotal moments and influential figures that have shaped the course of European monarchy. From epic battles to royal scandals, from grand coronations to turbulent successions, this weekly series will take you on a journey through time and…

You are in for a treat today as Steph welcomes esteemed historian Ian Mortimer to explore the fascinating world of Tudor England’s information and travel speed. Mortimer, whose latest book “Medieval Horizons: Why the Middle Ages Matter” showcases the era’s great innovation and progress, is sure to offer unparalleled insights on this intriguing topic. The…

Jane Boleyn, sister-in-law of Queen Anne Boleyn and wife of George Boleyn, found herself embroiled in the dangerous politics of the Tudor court. Following the execution of George and Anne for treason in 1536, Jane managed to navigate the treacherous world of Tudor politics and maintain a position in each successive queen’s household. However, her…

Throughout history, many remarkable women have left an indelible mark on the world, including those who dedicated their lives to the arts and philanthropy. From Spain to Scotland, Romania to France, and Russia to Austria, these women played an important role in shaping the cultural and social landscape of Europe. Though they lived in different…

Isabella of France and her husband Edward II’s marriage was turbulent and marked by rumors of infidelity. Isabella’s “affair” with Roger Mortimer, a powerful nobleman, became widely known and they plotted to overthrow Edward II. Their plot succeeded, resulting in Edward II’s deposition and possible murder. This scandalous period remains one of the most controversial…

Given a choice, my inclination is always to discuss history rather than talk about myself. However, at the urging of a dedicated listener and friend of the show, I have agreed to answer a series of questions. These queries touch on not only my interest in history but also shed light on my motivations for…

Exploring the lives of royals like Edward Plantagenet, Isabella of Portugal, Claude of France, and Princess Victoria Alexandra, among others, offers a fascinating look into the complexities of ruling and the factors that shape a monarch’s legacy. From medieval power struggles to modern-day scandals, the world of royalty has something to offer everyone interested in…

Katherine of Aragon, the first wife of King Henry VIII, left a profound and lasting legacy that goes far beyond her role as the mother of England’s first queen regnant. Though often portrayed as a prim and pious figure, the real Katherine was a complex and fascinating woman who defied the conventions of her time…

Despite Walsingham’s network of spies and back channels determined to expose Mary Stuart’s information network, Mary’s clandestine letters to Castelnau remained undiscovered for ten years. It was not until 1583 Walsingham managed to plant a mole in Castelnau’s embassy in London. These letters have been presumed lost for the past 436 years until now. Tudors…