In all the battles of the Wars of the Roses, with the focus on kings and warriors, we often lose sight of the women. Positioned to be queen first of Team Lancaster and eventually of Team York, Anne Neville is the focus of a new book by Rebecca Batley.

Show Notes:

Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
patreon.com/carolannlloyd
The Tudors by Numbers
Courting the Virgin Queen

Rebecca Batley
thetravellinghistorianclub.wordpress.com
@damagedbybooks on Instagram
@thetravellingH2 on Twitter
Anne Neville: Queen and Wife of Richard III
Ann Walker: The Life and Death of Gentleman Jack's Wife

History shows us what's possible.

The Tudors are one of the most famous dynasties in royal history. We can't stop talking about them. It's easy to forget how unlikely the dynasty was. Without the extraordinary ability of Margaret Beaufort to make connections with both sides of the Wars of the Roses, we probably never would have had a Tudor dynasty!

Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
patreon.com/carolannlloyd
The Tudors by Numbers
Courting the Virgin Queen

History shows us what's possible.

She's much more than the wife who "survived." Historian and author Laura Adkins takes us into the life of Kateryn Parr and shares the full background of this extraordinary woman, wife, stepmother, and queen.

Show Notes:

Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
patreon.com/carolannlloyd
The Tudors by Numbers, published by Pen and Sword
Courting the Virgin Queen, coming from Pen and Sword

Laura Adkins
Kateryn Parr: Henry VIII's Sixth Queen

History shows us what's possible.

Daughters of Kings were real players in the English court and in the courts of their husbands. Kelcey Wilson-Lee introduces us to these amazing women.

Show Notes:

Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
Kelcey Wilson-Lee
kelceywilsonlee.com
@kwilsonlee
Daughters of Chivalry: The Forgotten Children of Edward I

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Inspiring Dramatic Pack by Smart Sounds via Audio Jungle; Music Broadcast License

History shows us what's possible.

To celebrate my 100th episode, I'm joined by Katie Dvorak, Johanna Strong, Jessica Storoschuck, Heather Darsie, Rachael Dickzen, and Tracy Borman to chat about SIX the Musical!

After all, the SIX wives of Henry VIII are the epitome of Royals, Rebels, and Romantics!

Thank you to Katie Dvorak, Johanna Strong, Jessica Storoschuck, Heather Darsie, Rachael Dickzen, and Tracy Borman.

Thank you to everyone involved in SIX the Musical!
sixthemusical.com
sixonbroadway.com
@SIXthemusical
@SIXBroadway

Katie: @katd18
Johanna: @_johanna.strong_, @jo_strong-
Jessica: royalcentral.co.uk, @royalcentral, @royal.central, @anhistorianblog
Heather: maidensandmanuscripts.com, @hrdarsiehistory, @hdarsiehistory
Rachel: racheldickzen.com, @racheldickzen
Tracy: tracyborman.co.uk, @tracyborman, @tracy.borman

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Inspiring Dramatic Pack by Smart Sounds via Audio Jungle; Music Broadcast License

History shows us what's possible.

Show Notes: 

The stories of Anglo-Saxon women show us how much we share with them and have to learn from their history.

Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
Annie Whitehead
https://anniewhiteheadauthor.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/anniewhiteheadauthor/
https://www.instagram.com/anniewhiteheadauthor/
https://twitter.com/AnnieWHistory
https://anniewhitehead2.blogspot.com/
https://anniewhiteheadauthor2.blogspot.com/
https://rwranniewhitehead.blogspot.com/

Books: Women of Power in Anglo-Saxon England, To Be a Queen, Alvar the Kingmaker, Iclingas Tales, Mercia: The Rise and Fall (more coming!)

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Inspiring Dramatic Pack by Smart Sounds via Audio Jungle; Music Broadcast License

History shows us what's possible.

Show Notes

The British Library's exhibition, "Elizabeth and Mary: Royal Cousins, Rival Queens," reminds us of the power, politics, and personalities of these two extraordinary women.

Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
British Library
www.bl.uk
https://www.facebook.com/britishlibrary
@britishlibrary

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Inspiring Dramatic Pack by Smart Sounds via Audio Jungle; Music Broadcast License

History shows us what's possible.

Before he was King of England, he was a son, brother, husband, father, and uncle. Matt Lewis joins us to talk about the family of Richard III.

Show Notes:

Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
Matt Lewis
www.mattlewisauthor.com
Medieval Monday on History Hit
Facebook: Matt Lewis author
Twitter: @mattlewisauthor
Instagram: @mattlewishistory
Books: Richard III: Loyalty Binds Me; Richard III in Fact and Fiction; Cousins of Anarchy: Stephen and Matilda's Civil War; Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine: Founding an Empire: and many more!

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Inspiring Dramatic Pack by Smart Sounds via Audio Jungle; Music Broadcast License

History shows us what's possible.

From Elizabeth I to Elizabeth II, accession days and jubilee years have been a cause for national celebration.

Show Notes:

Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Inspiring Dramatic Pack by Smart Sounds via Audio Jungle; Music Broadcast License

History shows us what's possible.

Anna of Cleves had an interesting life before and after her short marriage to Henry VIII.

Show Notes:

Show Notes:
Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
Heather Darsie
Instagram: @hdarsiehistory
Twitter: @hrdarsiehistory
maidensandmanuscripts.com
Anna, Duchess of Cleves: The King's Beloved Sister

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Inspiring Dramatic Pack by Smart Sounds via Audio Jungle; Music Broadcast License

History shows us what's possible.

Mary's determination should come as no surprise. She is the daughter of Katherine of Aragon and Henry VIII after all! 

Show Notes:
Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
Johanna Strong
Instagram: @_johanna.strong_
Twitter: @jo_strong_

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Inspiring Dramatic Pack by Smart Sounds via Audio Jungle; Music Broadcast License

History shows us what's possible.

"If adventures will not befall a young lady in her own village, she must seek them abroad." (Northanger Abbey)

Show Notes:
Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
Nicole Jacobsen
Lexi K. Nilson
Instagram: @JaneAustenwashere
Facebook: @JaneAustenwashere

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Inspiring Dramatic Pack by Smart Sounds via Audio Jungle; Music Broadcast License

History shows us what's possible.

I do think our views shape the representation of the figures, and the representation of the figures shapes our views of them. 

Show Notes:

Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Inspiring Dramatic Pack by Smart Sounds via Audio Jungle; Music Broadcast License

History shows us what's possible.

What were the greatest dangers in Tudor England? Bears escaping from the Bear Garden? A runaway cart? Poison? Or running afoul of the king? In this guide book to time travel, historian and author tells us how to keep our wits & our head in Tudor England.

Show Notes:

Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
patreon.com/carolannlloyd
The Tudors by Numbers, published by Pen and Sword
Courting the Virgin Queen, coming from Pen and Sword

History shows us what's possible.

Tracy Borman joins us to discuss the English and British monarchy, from William the Conqueror to Her Majesty the Queen.

Show Notes:

Carol Ann Lloyd with Tracy Borman
tracyborman.co.uk
Be sure to check out the Events page!
@tracyborman on Twitter
@tracy.borman on Instagram
Crown & Sceptre: A New History of the British Monarchy from William the Conqueror to Elizabeth II (Hodder & Stoughton)
Available now in the UK and in February 2022 in US

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Inspiring Dramatic Pack by Smart Sounds via Audio Jungle; Music Broadcast License

History shows us what's possible.

History shows us what's possible.

Fashion is about function--and more! Dr. Sarah Bendall shares the ins and outs of dressing for the court job you want--in the court of Elizabeth I and the Stuarts!

Show Notes:

Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
Guest: Dr. Sarah A. Bendall
www.sarahabendall.com
@sarahabendall
Shaping Femininity (published by Bloombury)

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

History shows us what's possible.

The royal family has always made Christmas a special time of the year. Jessica Storoschuk shares how Queen Charlotte and Queen Alexandra made unique contributions to the holiday celebrations.

Show Notes:

Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
Guest: Jessica Storoschuk
www.anhistorianabouttown.com
@anhistorianblog

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

History shows us what's possible.

At Old Hall, visitors can experience and feel history. That's never more true than at Christmas!

Show Notes:

Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
Guest: Brigitte Webster
www.tudorexperience.com
Instagram: tudor_experience
Facebook: Tudor and 17th Century Experience
Twitter: @tudorfoodrecipe
Book: A Banquet at the Old Hall

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

History shows us what's possible.

Being at Hever Castle helps shrink the distance between our modern lives and history. Join us for a trip back in time at Hever Castle.

Show Notes:

Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
Guest: Dr. Owen Emmerson
www.drowenemmerson.com
@drowenemmerson
The Boleyns of Hever Castle (with Claire Ridgway)

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

History shows us what's possible.

I’m kicking off the holiday season with a quick discussion of one of my favorite Christmas movies…The Lion in Winter!

Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

Though a series of Christmas celebrations, Eleanor developed from being a young girl in Aquitaine to Queen Consort of France, then to wife of the heir to the English throne, then Queen Consort of England and mother of a growing royal family. Even spending 16 Christmases in captivity couldn’t keep Eleanor down, and she joined the family for that famous Christmas court in 1184. After outliving both royal husbands, Eleanor was the center of celebrations through the reign of Richard I, where she used her considerable talents to promote and secure his rule and his reputation. Even in retirement, she continued to carve out a legacy, leaving monuments to the Plantagenet empire that would change the face of England and Europe for centuries to come.

Huge shoutout to the extraordinary work of Elizabeth Chadwick about Eleanor!

History shows us what's possible.

The changing monarchy is much like the changing royal services of Thanksgiving. From the first Elizabeth to the second, so much has changed. But public appreciation for Queen and country continues to inspire.

Show notes:

Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

Sources for this show:
MAROTTI, ARTHUR F., and STEVEN W. MAY. “Two Lost Ballads of the Armada Thanksgiving Celebration [with Texts and Illustration].” English Literary Renaissance, vol. 41, no. 1, Wiley, 2011, pp. 31–63, http://www.jstor.org/stable/43447703.
https://www.rmg.co.uk/stories/topics/spanish-armada-history-causes-timeline 
Julie Ferguson, “Promoting the Peace: Queen Anne and the Public Thanksgiving at St. Paul’s Cathedral.” In Performances of Peace: Utrecht 1713. https://www.jstor.org/stable/43447703?read-now=1&refreqid=excelsior%3Af6111d749dde2096f875b08de7209a43&seq=12#page_scan_tab_contents

History shows us what's possible.

The Tower of London stands supreme among British historic landmarks. From the Peasants' Revolt to the Tudors, and from the execution site to the Crown Jewels, the Tower encompasses British history for royals, rebels, and romantics.

Show Notes:

Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
Guest: Siobhan Clarke
thehistoryguides.com
Books: King and Collector: Henry VIII and the Art of Kingship (2021), The Tudors: The Crown, the Dynasty, the Golden Age (2020), A Tudor Christmas (2018)
Note: You can purchase UK-published books not yet available in the US online at bookdepository.com or blackwells.co.uk. Siobhan's book about Elizabeth I will be published in the UK in spring 2022.

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

History shows us what's possible.

Henry VII claimed to end the Wars of the Roses. But he didn't make good on that until the end of his reign.

Show Notes:

Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
Guest: Nathen Amin
@nathenamin on Facebook, Instagram, twitter
nathenamin.com
Books: Henry VII and the Tudor Pretenders: Simnel, Warbeck, and Warwick (2021), The House of Beaufort (2017), York Pubs (2016), and Tudor Wales (2014)

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

Summary

For Henry VII, the battle for the English throne didn't end at Bosworth. Nathen Amin explains how some Yorkist supporters rallied behind two significant attempts to topple the Tudors before the dynasty had a chance to take hold. It wasn't until the end of his reign that Henry VII could look back and see the results of his attempt to establish a new dynasty.

History shows us what's possible.

What were the greatest dangers in Tudor England? Bears escaping from the Bear Garden? A runaway cart? Poison? Or running afoul of the king? In this guide book to time travel, historian and author tells us how to keep our wits and our head in Tudor England!

Show Notes:

Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
patreon.com/carolannlloyd
The Tudors by Numbers, published by Pen and Sword
Courting the Virgin Queen, coming from Pen and Sword

Toni Mount
tonimount.com
Facebook: ToniMount
Twitter: @tonihistorian 
medievalcourses.com

History shows us what's possible.

The Gunpowder Plot changed history. Just not in the way the plotters imagined.

Show Notes

Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
Guest: Dr. John Cooper
@tudorgentleman
Project at Westminster: virtualstephens.org.uk
The Queen's Agent: Sir Francis Walsingham and the Rise of Espionage in Elizabethan England (Pegasus Books)
Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

Summary

The Gunpowder Plot was a turning point in history. Dr. John Cooper joins us to explore the connections to Elizabeth I's reign, introduce us to Guy Fawkes and the other plotters, and imagine what the world would be like if the plotters had succeeded.

History shows us what's possible.

Queen Consorts make unexpected rebels.

Show Notes:

Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

Summary

Considering her position as Queen, her personal wealth and land, which greatly enhanced the wealth and power of Henry II, and her providing the king several sons, it’s surprising that Eleanor of Aquitaine would spend 16 years as an imprisoned rebel. 

Isabella of France was a Queen Consort who became an unexpected rebel against her husband. She led a successful invasion and put her young son on the throne, positioning herself as a powerful force. Another unlikely rebel, and one who was very successful.

Marguerite of Anjou was an acknowledged leader in the Wars of the Roses. Her efforts propelled Lancastrian forces to victory. In defeat, she proved a powerful rebel and attracted the support of the Kingmaker to make another play for power.

After doing everything she could to rebel against Richard III, Elizabeth Woodville saw her fortune turn. After Henry Tudor defeated Richard III at Bosworth and did become King of England, Elizabeth’s title as Queen Dowager was restored and she saw her daughter crowned Queen Consort of England. Not bad for a rebel!

Henrietta Maria used her family and her faith to raise money and troops in support of her husband Charles I. After his execution, she kept the royal family alive at an alternative court in France, and she's one of the reasons the monarchy was able to be restored. 

History shows us what's possible.

Show notes:

Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
Guest: Professor Suzannah Lipscomb
suzannahlipscomb.com
facebook.com/sixteenthCgirl/ 
twitter.com/sixteenthCgirl
instagram.com/sixteenthCgirl
podcast: Not Just the Tudors on HistoryHit

Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

Summary:

Professor Suzannah Lipscomb is an author, historian, broadcaster, and now podcaster. Her expertise covers a wide range of topics, including witchcraft. Her latest book is What is History Now, which she edited with Helen Carr.

Here Professor Lipscomb shares the history of witchcraft, how it's related to power and powerlessness, and the ways accusations and trials have been used to exert control during times of transition and anxiety. It's an important topic with clear resonance for today.

History shows us what's possible.

History shows us what's possible.

Show Notes:

Credits:
Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
Guest: Cassidy Cash
www.carolannlloyd.com
Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

Links:
www.cassidycash.com
https://www.cassidycash.com/macbeth-saved-shakespeare-gunpowder-plot/
 
Summary:
Shakespeare was writing in a time when people believed in witches. So when the witches appear in Macbeth, it would have been a terrifying moment. Cassidy Cash of That Shakespeare Life podcast helps us understand the play, the witches, and all the things Shakespeare was trying to accomplish.

Shakespeare's Macbeth was first performed early in the reign of King James. It was a tumultuous time and most people were on edge. The witches represented a real and present danger to the people. Cassidy explains how Shakespeare used these creatures and the particulars of their play to grab the attention of the audience that mattered most to him: the King himself.

From Shakespeare's day to our, Macbeth and the witches continue to capture our imagination.

History shows us what's possible.

Show Notes:

Credits:
Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

Sources Mentioned:
Borman, Tracy. Witches: James I and the English Witch Hunts.
Davies, Owen. "A Spell-binding History of Witches" (History Extra).
Lipscomb, Suzannah (Presenter). Witches: a Century of Murder.
Lipscomb, Suzannah. Witchcraft: A Ladybird Expert Book. 
 
Summary:
From early days in Jewish and Egyptian cultures to the middle ages, and from the surge of witch hunts across Europe in the 16th and 17th century to a new resurgence in self-identified witches today, the notion of witches and witchcraft is part of our history. As Alice Hoffman wrote in Practical Magic, “There’s a little witch in all of us.”

History shows us what's possible.

Show Notes

Kate McCaffrey, the Assistant Curator at Hever Castle, has recently uncovered new evidence on the Book of Hours owned and used by Anne Boleyn. Kate shares her findings and some connections to Elizabeth I.

Credits:
Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
Guest: Kate McCaffrey
kateemccaffrey.wordpress.com
Twitter: @kateemccaffrey
Instagram: @kateemccaffrey
Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

Episode Summary: 
Hever Castle was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. The beautiful castle offers amazing insights into the family and personal life of this famous wife of Henry VIII and mother of Elizabeth I.

Recently, Assistant Curator Kate McCaffrey uncovered evidence that Anne Boleyn's personal Book of Hours had been passed to family friends who cared for and kept the memento safe after Anne's dramatic fall from favor and violent death. The network of women from the neighborhood of Hever also have important connections to Anne's daughter, Elizabeth I. Kate generously shares her research and insights with us.

History shows us what's possible.

SHOW NOTES

Forced to abdicate in favor of her baby son, Mary Queen of Scots fled to England in 1568. For 19 years, she and Queen Elizabeth I became increasingly at odds as Mary was the focus of and then willing participant in plots to assassinate Elizabeth and put Mary on the English throne. We know that story. I think it's also important to realize that, although there were forces working against both women that they could not control, both women took control of their narratives and established lasting legends that helped shape history.

Credits:

Host: Carol Ann Lloyd
Creative Director: Lindsey Lindstrom
Music: Historical Documentary licensed through Audio Jungle/Envato Markets

www.carolannlloyd.com

Episode Summary:

John Knox may have been intended his work to challenge the rule of Catholic Mary Tudor, but it was Protestant Elizabeth I who came to the throne the year the First Blast was published. Marie of Guise died two years later. That left two women who were poised to rule England and Scotland for years to come: Mary Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I.

Mary Queen of Scots spent her youth in France and married Francois, heir to the French throne. They married and became King and Queen of France in 1559. They claimed to be King and Queen of England as well. After Francois's early death, Mary returned home to Scotland to begin her active rule.

So in 1561, there were two women ruling side by side in England and Scotland.

Elizabeth I had been on the English throne for three years. She had established a middle way in a hope of calming the chaos and turmoil that had accompanied the religious extremism of Mary I and Edward VI. Her pragmatic approach meant she kept Catholics on her privy council and focused on the behavior rather than the beliefs of her subjects. As Francis Bacon is reported to have said of her, she didn’t want to make windows into men’s souls. 

Mary also initially took a pragmatic approach to religion. Catholics in Scotland were hoping that her return would represent a major change in the government and a surge in Catholicism across the country. They were to be disappointed. Mary kept all the Protestant lords in power and sought to work closely with the Earl of Moray, her half-brother (he was the illegitimate son of James V). When Catholic powerhouse Lord Huntly led a rebellion against her, Mary joined with Moray. She was committed to policies that strengthened ties to England rather than those promoting Catholicism in Scotland. This indicates to historians like Jenny Wormald that Mary was already starting to focus on the English throne. 

Forced to abdicate in favor of her baby son, Mary fled to England. For 19 years, the two women became increasingly at odds as Mary was the focus of and then willing participant in plots to assassinate Elizabeth and put Mary on the English throne. We know that story. I think it's also important to realize that, although there were forces working against both women that they could not control, both women took control of their narratives and established lasting legends that helped shape history.

History shows us what's possible.

Dr. Tracy Borman is an internationally well-known and well-loved historian, broadcaster, and author. Her books are credited with humanizing the Tudors as she shares such details as Henry VIII’s love of puddings and Elizabeth I’s invention of her own perfume. Her nonfiction recreates and brings to life the famous figures of the Tudor dynasty. And her new non-fiction trilogy is described as “luring readers” into the world of Stuart England through the story of Lady Frances with effortless storytelling and vivid details. 

Tracy has been part of many historic programs for television, including The Fall of Anne Boleyn, Inside the Tower of London, World’s Greatest Palaces, Private Lives of the Monarchs, Inside the Court of Henry VIII, Majesty and Mortal: Britain’s Great Palaces, Tales from the Royal Bedchamber, and more.

Her non-fiction books include Henry VIII and the Men who Made Him; The Private Lives of the Tudors: Uncovering the Secrets of Britain’s Greatest Dynasty; Thomas Cromwell: The Hidden Story of Henry VIII’s Most Faithful Servant; Elizabeth’s Women; The Story of the Tower of London; Witches: A Tale of Sorcery, Scandal, and Seduction; Matilda: Queen of the Conqueror, and King’s Mistress, Queen’s Servant. Her fiction series, the King’s Witch trilogy, includes The King’s Witch, The Devil’s Slave, and The Fallen Angel. 

Tracy’s new book, Crown & Sceptre: A New History of the British Monarchy, will be released in the UK later this year and in 2022 in the US. It coincides with the celebrations of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee.

Tracy is also Joint Chief Curator of Historic Royal Palaces and actually has an office in Henry VIII’s grand palace, Hampton Court.

You can find Tracy on social media:
Twitter: @TracyBorman
Instagram: tracy.borman
Website is tracyborman.co.uk.

History shows us what's possible.

Dr. Tracy Borman is an internationally well-known and well-loved historian, broadcaster, and author. Her books are credited with humanizing the Tudors as she shares such details as Henry VIII’s love of puddings and Elizabeth I’s invention of her own perfume. Her nonfiction recreates and brings to life the famous figures of the Tudor dynasty. And her new non-fiction trilogy is described as “luring readers” into the world of Stuart England through the story of Lady Frances with effortless storytelling and vivid details. 

Tracy has been part of many historic programs for television, including The Fall of Anne Boleyn, Inside the Tower of London, World’s Greatest Palaces, Private Lives of the Monarchs, Inside the Court of Henry VIII, Majesty and Mortal: Britain’s Great Palaces, Tales from the Royal Bedchamber, and more.

Her non-fiction books include Henry VIII and the Men who Made Him; The Private Lives of the Tudors: Uncovering the Secrets of Britain’s Greatest Dynasty; Thomas Cromwell: The Hidden Story of Henry VIII’s Most Faithful Servant; Elizabeth’s Women; The Story of the Tower of London; Witches: A Tale of Sorcery, Scandal, and Seduction; Matilda: Queen of the Conqueror, and King’s Mistress, Queen’s Servant. Her fiction series, the King’s Witch trilogy, includes The King’s Witch, The Devil’s Slave, and The Fallen Angel. 

Tracy’s new book, Crown & Sceptre: A New History of the British Monarchy, will be released in the UK later this year and in 2022 in the US. It coincides with the celebrations of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee.

Tracy is also Joint Chief Curator of Historic Royal Palaces and actually has an office in Henry VIII’s grand palace, Hampton Court.

You can find Tracy on social media:
Twitter: @TracyBorman
Instagram: tracy.borman
Website is tracyborman.co.uk.

History shows us what's possible.

Thomas More's daughter Margaret tends to be in many of the rooms or on the sidelines when great things were happening in the court of Henry VIII. Aimee Fleming brings her into the center of the action, revealing her level of learning and how much impact she had on our understanding of the history of the Tudor court.

Show Notes:

Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
patreon.com/carolannlloyd
The Tudors by Numbers, published by Pen and Sword
Courting the Virgin Queen, coming from Pen and Sword

Aimee Fleming
historyaimee.wordpress.com
@historyaimee79
Female Tudor Scholar and Writer: The Life and Times of Margaret More Roper

History shows us what's possible.

We're back for another season featuring the royals, rebels, and romantics of British History! Season Two will bring some new fun to the podcast.  Here's what's ahead:

• September will be all about Elizabeth I.
• October will delve into the world of witches and other sorcery.
• November will give us a chance to remember, remember lots of rebels and rebellions.
• And December will be a time for festive and famous holiday celebrations!!

We'll also be launching a patron program soon, giving you an opportunity to play a larger role. Stay tuned!

To start us off, here are some questions we're considering  about Elizabeth I.

• Why was she taken out of the line of succession and then put back in again? 
• Why did Edward VI disinherit her instead of just passing over Mary and leaving the crown to Elizabeth?
• Why didn't Mary, who did not like Elizabeth, choose NOT to disinherit her?
• Why did Mary Queen of Scots claim the English throne?
• How did people feel about Elizabeth becoming Queen?

It's all Elizabeth, all month!

History shows us what's possible.

The Tudor court was always on the move. Basic hygiene required that the court remain in any one palace for just a few weeks before moving out so everything could be cleaned. Think of no indoor plumbing or running water. After a few weeks, it was time to move.

During the spring and summer, those moves went beyond London into other parts of the country. This was for practical reasons in some ways—plague and other illnesses often came during these months, and London was crowded and therefore dangerous. Getting out of the city made good sense to avoid contagion.

But beyond the need for cleaning and the advantage of avoiding disease, the most important motive for spring and summer progresses was to see and be seen. It was important for the monarch to visit worrisome areas of the country. That way, the highest figures in the government could identify areas where trouble was brewing and make a preemptive strike to settle things down. In addition, the physical presence of majesty could be enough to convince would-be rebels to think twice (or more!) about causing trouble. The size of the household and presence of guards and knights was a visual reminder of the power of the monarch. 

Early progresses of the first and final Tudor monarchs give us some great insight into the potential power of the royal progress.

History shows us what's possible.

Tudors spent their summers working hard, playing hard, enjoying season fruits, and sometimes having a great time. Brigitte Webster of Tudor & 17th Century Experience continues to share her expertise on how Tudors enjoyed their summers.

Find more about Brigitte and how you can immerse yourself in a real Tudor experience at https://www.tudorexperience.com and be sure to follow her on Instagram (@tudor_experience), Facebook (Tudor & 17th Century Experience), and Twitter (@tudorfoodrecipe). 

History shows us what's possible.

From special summer food to the Banqueting House, and from harvest days to feasting, Tudor summers were a time of working hard and celebrating. Brigitte Webster, owner of Tudor and 17th Century Experience, shares the details of Tudor summer fun and feasting. Living at Old Hall, a 16th century home, Brigitte experiences the full Tudor experience. 

Brigitte shares the fun of a Tudor summer, which included gathering together to share a meal, eating outside, and discovering and enjoying the power of sugar.

History shows us what's possible.

When we think of Jane Austen’s novels, we often think of life in the parlor. Well-dressed Bingley sisters making pointed comments in the grand rooms of Netherfield Hall. Mr. Knightley visiting Emma and Mr. Woodhouse at Hartfield. Lady Catherine deBourgh holding court at Rosings. And Mr. Darcy watching Elizabeth play the piano at Pemberley. Ladies read books and walk around the room. Gentlemen write letters. Relationships develop and dissolve.

But what might happen if they take a journey to the seaside?

Austen's characters tease us with the promises and perils of sea bathing!

“The sea is very rarely of use to any body. I am sure it almost killed me once.”
BENEFITS OF THE SEASIDE

“The sea is no beautifier, certainly; sailors do grow old betimes; I have observed it; they soon lose the look of youth.”
DANGERS OF THE SEA

“There has been a solemn engagement between them ever since October—formed at Weymouth, and kept a secret from every body.”
SCANDALS OF THE SEASIDE

“A little sea-bathing would set me up for ever.”
APPEAL OF THE SEASIDE

History shows us what's possible.

In 1800, Queen Charlotte, wife of George III, erected the first known Christmas tree at Windsor Castle. She hosted a party for the children of Windsor families. According to Dr. John Watkins, who wrote a biography of Queen Charlotte, the large yew tree stood in a tub in the middle of the drawing room at Queen’s Lodge. The branches were decorated with “bunches of sweetmeats, almonds, and raisins in papers, fruits and toys, most tastefully arranged, and the whole illuminated by small wax candles.” 

Prince Albert popularized the Christmas tree. As he and Queen Victoria shared their family tradition of gathering around the tree at Windsor Castle with popular publications of the day, the tradition caught on with families throughout the country. With the support (and possibly encouragement) of the royal family, Illustrated London News, Cassell’s Magazine, and The Graphic shared images of the royal Christmas at Windsor with details about the royal trees.

After Victoria, in the early 20th century, the royals began celebrating Christmas at Sandringham. Edward VII decided to start holding family Christmas celebrations there in 1864. George V continued the tradition of the royal family Christmas at Sandringham. In 1932, King George V delivered the first royal Christmas broadcast live from Sandringham House. 

George VI, who succeeded his brother, gave his first Christmas broadcast in 1937. In 1939, George VI spoke on the first Christmas of World War II. He sadly reflected on the loss of peace during the Christmas season and praised the Royal Navy, British Expeditionary Force, and armies of the Empire. As the war ended and new challenges arose, George VI spoke of the unity and steadfastness of the Commonwealth and the Empire.

Her Majesty the Queen gave her first Christmas message from the same desk and chair that her father and grandfather had used. She pledged to carry on the tradition of Christmas broadcasts and thanked people for their loyalty and affection. She has delivered broadcasts from Sandringham, New Zealand, Buckingham Palace, and Windsor Castle. As technology progressed, she moved the broadcast from radio to television and then to HD, and often incorporates additional footing.

This year, the Queen’s annual Christmas message will be delivered from Windsor Castle—which is the same location as her two previous addresses of 2020. Last year, in 2019, the Queen said it is “the small steps, not the giant leaps” that bring about lasting change in the world. This was a reference to the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission and our own roles in doing good in the world. As always, her message is both timely and utterly timeless.

History shows us what's possible.

When Victoria and Albert married in 1840, they consciously set about improving the image of the monarchy. Creating a family Christmas, with children gathered around the tree, was an essential part of this. With their Christmas tree as a centerpiece, the royal family was ready to create a picture-perfect Christmas. In 1848, the Illustrated London News featured a drawing of the royal family celebrating around a decorated Christmas tree. Eager to share the image of family-centered royals, especially at Christmas, Victoria and Albert were happy to have the image published. The popularity of the Christmas tree grew rapidly in Britain after the image appeared. 

A few years later, in 1860, an image of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, and their children decorating the tree was featured in Godey’s Lady’s Book. The growing popularity of Christmas and the Christmas tree helped make the royal family seem like a benefit to the British people. Even into the 20th century, images of the young Victoria and Albert decorating the Christmas tree continued to emerge. For example, in the 1910 Life of Queen Victoria for Boys and Girls by Alice Corkran features an image of the young queen and prince consort, with a couple of their young children, decorating the Christmas tree. The image of the royal family celebrating around a Christmas tree became permanently connected with Victoria’s reign. 

Like A Christmas Carol, the popularity of A Visit from St. Nicholas helped shape the perception of Christmas and continues to do so today. Likewise, the efforts of Victoria and Albert, supported by economic and technological advances, were essential to the transition of Christmas from a quiet celebration at the beginning of the 19th century to the modern celebration we enjoy today.

History shows us what's possible.

For the Tudors, Christmas was a highlight of the year. It was a time of feasting on especially grand dishes, of dancing and singing, of enjoying the antics of the Lord of Misrule and special holiday revels and entertainments, and of showing off. Oh, and of course going to church. 


The Tudors certainly made the most of these traditions. Families in Tudor times carried on decorating their homes with holly and ivy. They brought in mistletoe and often shaped it into the double ring under which couples could kiss. Tudor lords opened their great manors for members of the village, inviting in members of the village to partake of a special meal. Common families indulged in meat, pastries, fruit, and other specialties over Christmas that they wouldn’t see for the rest of the year. The holiday lasted for twelve days, from December 25 to Twelfth Night in January. It was a time people stopped working, spent more time in church, visited families, enjoyed entertainment, and shared gifts.

History shows us what's possible.

We're celebrating Christmas in July!

Unlike today, Medieval Christmas decorations did not start going up mid-October! In fact, because of Advent, the 40 days before Christmas were pretty bleak. Once noon passed on December 24, decorating homes and churches could begin. Family members wrapped up warmly and headed outside to gather the holly bows, ivy, red berries, pine branches and cones, and other greenery they would use to decorate their homes.

There weren’t Christmas trees in homes in Medieval England. Instead, the center of the decorations was often a double ring of mistletoe that was hung in a prominent location. The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe was common in this time, and often the kissing couple of pluck one of the red berries each time they shared a kiss. Again, we see remnants of pagan and other beliefs. The Celtic druids believed holly warded off evil spirits. Romans and others believed mistletoe would encourage fertility, protect crops, and keep witches away. 

Another Christmas tradition is the Yule log. The family would drag a large piece of tree trunk into the house and light it on Christmas Eve, using a piece of the Yule log from the year before. To ensure good luck and better fortune in the coming year, it was important to keep the log burning throughout the holiday season. It was allowed to go out after Epiphany, and a portion was kept to light next year’s log.

Most people had eaten sparsely and fasted during Advent, so they looked forward to Christmas feasting. For all levels of society, Christmas food usually represented better fare than the usual. Laborers, farm workers, and the like often treated themselves to meat at Christmas—usually boiled. This was often the only time of year they ate meat. Sometimes, the lord of the manor would feast on venison and then offer the leftover bits and entrails to his workers. These bits, called umbles, were often baked into a pie. An umble pie. That’s right—the beginning of humble pie. In addition to meat, workers and peasants might treat themselves to cheese and eggs and even a cake.

Members of the aristocracy dined so well during the rest of the year that they had to go all out to make Christmas feasts something special. And they did! Decorated with seasonal greenery and spices, the Great Hall was the setting for the grandest meals. The Christmas feast was several courses, often hailed by trumpets or other music as it was carried in. The higher levels of aristocracy were entitled to more variety of food and more courses. The king, of course, had the best of everything. His holiday meals would go on for hours, with various courses introduced with musical numbers and other performances.

Waes Hael!

History shows us what's possible.

She was surrounded by men: daughter of a Duke, sister of an Earl, and wife of the King's illegitimate son! But Mary Howard, daughter-in-law of Henry VIII, was not about to be pushed around. She stood up for what was hers, refused to be married off, and ended up with an income and a chance to make a life of her own.

No wonder her father described her as "too wise for a woman."

Join Rebecca Larson of Tudors Dynasty to meet a remarkable woman and get a new perspective on women's lives in Tudor England.

History shows us what's possible.

No one was closer to the Tudors Queens than their ladies-in-waiting. From helping them get ready for the day to sleeping in their rooms at night, these women had a front row seat to what happened at court. Nicola Clark takes us into their world.

Show Notes:

Carol Ann Lloyd
www.carolannlloyd.com
@shakeuphistory
patreon.com/carolannlloyd
The Tudors by Numbers, published by Pen and Sword
Courting the Virgin Queen, coming from Pen and Sword

Nicola Clark
Twitter: @nikkiclark86
Insta: @nicolaclark86
The Waiting Game: The Untold Story of the Women who Served the Tudor Queens
Gender, Family, and Politics: The Howard Women

History shows us what's possible.

The whole idea of the royal succession was for the throne to pass from the King to his adult, prepared, son. That’s the pattern that makes the “The King is dead, long live the King” thing work. But in English and Scottish and British history, that didn’t always happen. Sometimes there wasn’t an adult son ready to take the throne. Sometimes (gasp!) the throne went to a woman! And sometimes (double gasp!), it went to a child. Throughout Medieval times, when the King needed to rule and a strong King meant a strong country, a child on the throne was a bit of a problem. It was right there in the Bible: “Woe to thee, O land, when thy king is a child.”

It was not automatically a full disaster. But it was certainly less than ideal. 

It had taken Henry VIII nearly 30 years of his reign to have a son, so by the time Edward was born, the King was in his final decade. Henry’s health was failing by the end of 1546. So he did everything he could to help smooth the way for his son to take and keep the throne. Although young, Edward was a determined and dedicated reformer and his reign saw significant reforms and the beginning of the use of the term “Protestant.” Edward’s second Book of Common prayer provided a model for worship that would be used for 400 years. He was beginning to write in his journal about his frustration with those who didn’t follow his religious laws—it’s likely that if he had lived longer, his persecution of Catholics would have increased. But Edward was one of the few child Kings who did not grow to adulthood and rule on his own.

One of the interesting things about the reign of Richard II was that he had one of his best royal moments while still in his minority. Although just 14 years old, Richard responded decisively. He met the rebels at Mile End and agreed to some of their demands. The rebels grew restive and the King’s men responded, pulling Tyler off his horse and killing him. Despite the rebels’ outcries, Richard shouted that he was their true captain and led them away from the scene. It was not the end of outbreaks of rebellion, but Richard had shown his potential as a leader and exercised authority in the defeat, capture, and execution of the rebels. Ironically, Richard’s success with the Peasant’s Revolt turned out to contribute to his downfall. It seemed to fuel Richard’s belief in his absolute power as King—and he started to exercise it.

If it’s bad to have a king who’s a child, imagine the potential disaster if the King is an infant. Especially in the midst of a huge war with France. There’s a moment at the end of Shakespeare’s Henry V, after the “band of brothers” speech and the glories of Agincourt and the humor of King Henry and Princess Katherine where the Chorus comes back on stage and rips the thrill of victory right out from under us. Henry V’s victories were followed shortly by his early death.
Henry the Sixth, in infant bands crown’d King
Of France and England, did this King succeed;
Whose state so many had the managing,
That they lost France and made his England bleed.

Of course, England wasn’t the only country with child Kings. The Stuarts saw a series of Kings named James take the throne as children. In 1406, James I was 12 and in captivity when he became King. James II became King at age 6 after his father was assassinated. The exact birth of James III is disputed, but he certainly was no older than 10 when he became King. James IV became King of Scotland at age 15 after his father died in battle. James V was only 17 months old when he became King after his father’s death in battle. And James VI was only 13 months old when he became King. So from 1406 to 1567, the incoming King was a young boy. There was, of course, one exception. Still a child, but not a boy. The exception is, of course, Mary Queen of Scots. 

So having a child on the throne may have been as bad as prop

History shows us what's possible.

For much of royal history, Kings literally ruled. And a King’s primary job description was to ensure peace and prosperity at home, protect against enemies abroad, and secure the succession. Be a judge, be a soldier, be a dad. A King’s success was typically judged against these criteria, at least through the Middle Ages and into the sixteenth and seventeenth century. Then Queens took the throne, which shifted the focus on family roles somewhat. Parliament began to take more control. A constitutional monarchy emerged. Still, the focus on fathers continued well into the 20th century.

We’re going to take a look at five royal fathers: Henry II, Edward III, Henry VIII, Prince Albert, and George VI. For all, we’ll be considering this well-known question: Does father know best?

We start with a first and a second: first Plantagenet King and second husband of Eleanor of Aquitaine, Henry II. Henry produced many sons and created a dynasty. Not a bad start.

And now on to Edward III. Edward and Philippa produced 13 children, 9 of whom lived to adulthood. He had an impressive five sons, although the descendants' behavior implies that might have been too many.

Next up: Henry VIII, one of the most famous…and infamous…royal fathers. The obsession of his life and his reign was laser focused on the goal of producing a son. So after all that effort to finally have a son, what kind of father was he?

Our next royal father was never King himself, but he was father of a King and some Queens, and grandfather of many royals all across Europe. I’m speaking of Prince Albert, the consort of Queen Victoria.

Our final father is quite recent: George VI, the father of the current Queen. It’s easy to see how George VI’s dedication to his family benefitted his daughters and his nation.

History shows us what's possible.

Born in 1662 and 1665, Stuart Princesses Mary and Anne came into a turbulent world—especially turbulent for the royal family. Their grandfather, King Charles I, had been executed by Parliament in 1649. Their uncle, Charles II, had been invited to come back to England and restore the monarchy in 1660. Then there was the Great Plague of 1665 and the Great Fire of 1666. In 1671, when Mary was 9 and Anne was 6, their mother died. Over the years, the two girls had seen several baby siblings die as well. Their life may have been royal, but it had not been particularly carefree.

Worried about long-term Catholic rule, leading nobles invited William of Orange to pursue Mary’s claim to the throne. Mary became popular, and people looked to her as the “mother” of the nation. Naturally, people hoped she would quickly produce heirs to provide for the succession. But for the time being, the heir was Mary’s sister, Anne.  

Mary’s role in ruling the country changed in 1690 when William decided to lead the army against James’s attempt to retake his throne. Parliament passed the Regency Act in 1690 to clarify Mary’s right to exercise regal power. Mary’s administration was one of challenge, with war, naval mismanagement, plots against the King and Queen, and religious tensions. Mary’s style of rule was to seek William’s guidance, writing him regularly and seeking his advice and counsel. She attended council meetings. Initially, she spent most of the time listening, but as time went on she gained confidence and a voice. 

The sisters' relationship fractured as Anne relied more on her friend Sarah Churchill and ignored the wishes of the King and Queen. The quarrels between the sisters escalated, and Anne left court. The two sisters never saw each other again.

Anne became Queen after William's death in 1702.  Anne made much of her English background to distance herself from William and the specter of the French-supported Jacobites. She declared “I know my heart to be entirely English.” She also promised, “I can very sincerely assure you there is not anything you can expect or desire from me, which I shall not be ready to do for the happiness and prosperity of England.” This was exactly what the English people wanted to hear.

One of the most significant outcomes of Anne’s reign were the Acts of Union. Although England and Scotland had been ruled by the same monarch since the death of Elizabeth I in 1603, the two countries were not united into a single kingdom. From her first speech to Parliament, Anne took a firm stand on union, declaring it to be “very necessary.” The articles passed the Parliaments of both countries in early 1707, uniting England and Scotland into Great Britain with one Parliament. Anne attended a thanksgiving service in St. Paul’s Cathedral. Sir John Clerk wrote, “Nobody on this occasion appeared more sincerely devout and thankful than the Queen herself.”

In August of 1714, after suffering two violent strokes, Queen Anne died. With Anne’s death, the turbulent Stuart dynasty came to an end.

History shows us what's possible.