Claire | December 24, 2022
On this day in Tudor history, 24th December 1545, Christmas Eve, King Henry VIII made his final speech to Parliament. He was concerned about the religious divisions in his kingdom and in his speech, he chastised the Lords and Commons for their disagreements. He also criticised the clergy for provoking this discord. Let me share […]
Claire | April 27, 2016
On this day in history 27th April 1536, writs were issued summoning Parliament to meet on 8th June, even though Parliament had only been dissolved on 14th April. A letter was also sent to Archbishop Thomas Cranmer asking him to attend the Parliament. Why was Parliament being summoned? Did this have anything to do with […]
Claire | December 24, 2015
On 24th December 1545, just over a year and a month before his death, King Henry VIII made his final speech to Parliament. Historian Robert Hutchinson describes it as “both measured and compelling”, and writes of how Henry wanted “to impart a stern message” to all of his subjects. Lord Chancellor Thomas Wriothesley would normally […]
Claire | December 24, 2014
On 24th December 1545, King Henry VIII made his final speech to Parliament. Historian Robert Hutchinson describes it as “both measured and compelling”, and writes of how Henry wanted “to impart a stern message” to all of his subjects. Lord Chancellor Thomas Wriothesley would normally have given the address, but Wriothesley was unpopular at this […]
