Hey, this is Heather from the Renaissance English History Podcast, and this is your Tudor Minute for May 4.
Today in 1608 Bess of Hardwick was laid to rest. She is one of the most inspirational Tudor women to me – she was born into minor gentry, and rose to become the second wealthiest woman in England, second only to the Queen. She also was highly involved in the politics of the time – her final husband was the jailer of Mary Queen of Scots, which put enormous strain on their marriage. She also worked to set up a dynasty through her granddaughter Arbella Stuart, who had a very good claim to the English throne upon Elizabeth’s death.
She was buried at All Saints’ parish church (now Cathedral) in Derby beneath a monument designed by Robert Smythson.
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 where we have several episodes on Bess of Hardwick.