The Prince And the Pauper Historical background information

HENRY VIII TUDOR Henry was a very popular king as a young man. However, the longer he reigned, he became a king of arrogance and tyranny. Henry is most famous for his six wives.

Henrys first wife was Catherine. She gave birth to a daughter named Mary. Henry did not want a wife that could not give him an heir (because certainly England would never want a queen on the throne). Henry decided to divorce Catherine. Divorce was not allowed in the Catholic Church (the official church of England at the time). Henry decided to start his own church and he named himself the head of the Church of England. The Church of England became the official church for England. Henry made divorce legal and promptly divorced Catherine. CATHERINE

Anne Boleyn Henrys second wife was Anne Boleyn. Anne also had a girl. Henry was once again displeased with the gender of his child. Henry charged Anne with treason. Anne was convicted (even though she wasnt guilty) and sentenced to death by beheading.

Jane Seymour Henrys third wife was Jane Seymour. She gave birth to a boy, whom they named Edward VI. Jane died only twelve days after the birth of Henrys son. Henry married three more times after the death of his third wife. Henry beheaded two more wives as he had Anne Boleyn.

Lady Jane Grey was the niece of Henry VIII. She entered the castle as an attendant to one of Henrys wives. Prior to Edwards death, an attempt was made to name her successor to the throne, but was overthrown by Mary. Lady Jane was convicted of treason and beheaded. Lady Jane Grey

The Great Seal was used to authorize documents coming from the king. There was often an official whose responsibility was to keep the Seal. Most people could not read, and the Seal provided proof that the king had officially approved an action. The Great Seal of England

The London Bridge was built in The London Bridge was the only bridge across the Thames River as it flowed through London. There were houses and shops on both sides and in places the street was only nine feet wide. Some of the buildings were as much as seven stories high. At the north end of the bridge was a tunnel through which all foot traffic had to pass to cross the bridge. At the south end were several heads of executed enemies of the king. These heads were displayed until they rotted away. London Bridge

The English people were not considered to be citizens, but as servants to the king. They had very few rights and the average trial would last only ten minutes. Many crimes were punishable by death. The most common executions were: a. hanging, b. burning to death, and c. being pressed to death. English Laws in the 16th Century