Today is the birthday of Philip II of Spain, in 1527, to Charles V - the Holy Roman Emperor - and Isabella of Portugal - in Valladolid, in Spain. He played an important part in our story throughout the middle and late 16th century. First, he was the consort of Mary Tudor - she was very much in love with him, though he viewed the whole arrangement as more necessary to bring England back into the Catholic fold. Next, he would be a major part of Elizabeth’s foreign policy maneuverings. After she rejected his marriage proposal, her pirates raided his ships bringing back gold from the Americas, and defeated the Spanish Armada that he ordered as an invasion force.
That’s your Tudor Minute for today. Remember you can dive deeper into life in 16th century England through the Renaissance English History Podcast at englandcast.com.
Links: Armada Month
https://www.englandcast.com/2016/01/armada-part-i-the-30-year-road-to-the-battle/