In 1485, a significant turning point in English history occurred with the ascension of Henry Tudor to the throne. This marked the end of the Plantagenet dynasty, which had ruled England for over three centuries. Henry VII's victory at the Battle of Bosworth Field cemented his position as king and paved the way for the Tudor dynasty.
Henry VII's reign was characterized by a focus on financial stability and the consolidation of power. He strengthened the English navy, reformed the tax system, and established a strong alliance with France.
Henry VIII's reign is often remembered for its tumultuous nature, marked by his infamous divorce from Catherine of Aragon and the English Reformation. However, it was also a period of significant cultural and economic growth.
The establishment of the Church of England, with Henry as its head, had far-reaching consequences. It allowed for greater control over the country's religious institutions and paved the way for future monarchs to wield more power.
Elizabeth I's reign is often regarded as one of the most successful in English history. Her diplomatic efforts and military victories secured a period of relative peace and prosperity.
Her patronage of the arts, particularly theater and literature, had a profound impact on English culture. The works of William Shakespeare, Christopher Marlowe, and Ben Jonson, among others, continue to be celebrated worldwide.