England

Hugh Ross Williamson describes how, in the fierce dynastic struggles of the later fifteenth century, Edward IV’s brother, George Plantagenet, played a devious and ill-fated part.

Robert Habsland introduces an intrepid traveller, an appreciative tourist and an ardent advocate of feminism; Lady Mary was the first distinguished woman of letters that England had seen.

Gregory Robinson describes how, in the days of Cromwell’s Protectorate the first English naval and military hospitals were established in London at the Savoy and at Ely House.

J.B. James relates how, during the last years of Elizabeth I’s reign, Mountjoy played a leading role as courtier, soldier and faithful lover of Essex’s sister, Penelope Rich.

A.A. Mitchell profiles James II: the last Stuart King; brave in battle but futile as a monarch; and who signally failed to reconcile his subjects to his ossified political beliefs.

It was Wriothesley, as Lord Chancellor, who tearfully announced to Parliament the death of King Henry VIII; under the Protectorate that followed, his career was chequered. By A.L. Rowse.

J.P. Kenyon describes how the Exclusion movement of 1679-81 revealed a widespread frustration among the Parliamentary classes, their distrust of Charles II, and their hatred of Popery. You can find the first part of this article here.

Eunice H. Turner asserts that much has been written of Elizabeth’s male favourites; less is known of the devoted women friends who served her assiduously throughout her long existence

A.L. Rowse meets the grandfather of Shakespeare’s beloved patron, a characteristic Henrician, and a man to whom the English Reformation brought unrivalled opportunities.

Barrett L. Beer traces the Duke of Northumberland’s life and rise to power, which form an extraordinary chapter in the troubled history of Tudor England.