Tudors Dynasty & Beyond

Episodes

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  Richard III: The Parliament That Made Him Enemies 20.08.2026 1h 16m

  In Richard III: The Parliament That Made Him Enemies, Rebecca Larson and historian Matt Lewis examine Richard’s landmark Parliament of 1484—an assembly whose legislation was praised even by historians otherwise hostile to his reign.Richard abolished forced “benevolences,” strengthened protections for people accused of crimes, confronted corruption within the jury system, protected English merchants and land buyers, and expanded access to justice for those unable to afford it. These were extraordinary reforms designed to restrain the powerful and protect ordinary people. But in challenging the privileges and practices of England’s nobility, was Richard also weakening the support upon which his crown depended?Beyond Parliament, Richard showed remarkable mercy toward those convicted of treason—including Margaret Beaufort, whose continued plotting would help place her son on the throne. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Woodville left sanctuary and entrusted her daughters to Richard’s court, Richard and Anne suffered the devastating loss of their only son, and Henry Tudor gained both an experienced commander and the backing of France.Richard III may have been governing for the people—but was he making enemies of the very men who had the power to dethrone him?--Support the podcast on Patreon and get COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT: https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis
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  Bosworth: The Battle That Richard III Almost Won 18.08.2026 1h 7m

  The Battle of Bosworth is often remembered as the inevitable end of Richard III and the triumphant beginning of the Tudor dynasty - but Henry Tudor’s victory was anything but certain.In this episode, we examine the battle from Richard’s perspective, revealing an experienced commander who entered the field with the larger army and came within seconds of killing Henry Tudor. Far from a final act of desperation, Richard’s legendary cavalry charge may have been a sound tactical decision that almost changed the course of English history.We also explore Henry’s precarious invasion, the uncertain loyalties of the Stanleys, the three armies gathered at Bosworth, and the last-minute intervention that decided the battle. From French mercenaries and sweating sickness to political betrayal and a remarkably unlikely cast of Tudor supporters, this is the story of how Richard III almost won - and how narrowly the Tudor dynasty came to never existing at all.--Mikes' Books on Amazon US (you can find them in most retailers as well)--Support the podcast on Patreon and get COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT: https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Michael Jones
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  Richard III: The Gathering Storm (Medieval Kings Series) 13.08.2026 1h 17m

  Richard III’s reign began with remarkable speed—and almost immediately began to unravel. In this episode, Rebecca and historian Matt Lewis examine Richard’s accession in June 1483, the declaration that Edward IV’s children were illegitimate, and the precedent behind his acceptance of the throne at Baynard’s Castle. Just days later, Richard was crowned at Westminster Abbey before an impressive gathering of the English nobility.But beneath the ceremony, opposition was already taking shape. Margaret Beaufort and Bishop John Morton maneuvered behind the scenes, Elizabeth Woodville entered into a remarkable alliance, and the Duke of Buckingham emerged as the leader of a rebellion that may have concealed ambitions of his own. Meanwhile, rumors surrounding the Princes in the Tower spread unchecked, encouraged by Richard’s decision to keep their whereabouts secret.The discussion also explores the international threat from France, the questionable reliability of Dominic Mancini, and the strategic errors that left Richard increasingly vulnerable—including his decision to leave London on royal progress and his misplaced trust in Buckingham.By the end of 1483, Buckingham was dead and the rebellion had failed—but the opposition Richard faced was no longer hidden.And be sure to stay until near the end, when Matt reveals a surprise that Rebecca certainly wasn’t expecting.--Like the podcast? Please consider becoming a patron on Patreon, and you'll receive COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT: https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis
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  Queens, Rebels and the Women Who Shaped 1066 11.08.2026 1h 17m

  Queens, Rebels and the Women Who Shaped 1066 explores the remarkable women whose influence helped define the Norman Conquest and transform 11th-century England.Historian Sharon Bennett Connolly, author of Silk and the Sword, joins Rebecca to bring women such as Emma of Normandy, Lady Godiva, GYtha of Wessex, and Edith of Wessex out of the historical footnotes and place them at the center of the story. From queens who guarded royal treasuries and negotiated dangerous dynastic politics to mothers who resisted William the Conqueror and preserved Harold II’s bloodline, these women were far from passive observers.The conversation also uncovers the likely truth behind Lady Godiva’s legendary “naked” ride, examines whether Emma of Normandy was betrayed by a forged letter, and investigates the mysterious Elfgifu scene in the Bayeux Tapestry. Who was she—and was the cleric offering a blessing, delivering a reprimand, or exposing a scandal?Discover the queens, rebels, mothers, and survivors who shaped 1066—and whose legacies continued within the English royal family for centuries.--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sharon Bennett-Connolly
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  What If Katherine of Aragon Had Stepped As 09.08.2026 49m

  What if Katherine of Aragon had willingly stepped aside and allowed Henry VIII to marry Anne Boleyn? Would Mary have remained legitimate—and could England’s break with Rome have been avoided?Rebecca and Amy explore the legal, political, and religious consequences of this alternate Tudor timeline. Even with Katherine’s cooperation, Henry’s marriage would still have required a formal dissolution, raising difficult questions about Mary’s legitimacy and place in the succession. Could Parliament have protected her rights, and what might Katherine have demanded in return?The conversation also considers whether Henry would have remained loyal to Rome, how slowly religious reform might have progressed, and whether England’s monasteries could have escaped wholesale dissolution. Finally, what would Katherine’s peaceful retirement have meant for Anne Boleyn—and might Anne later have been persuaded to accept a similar settlement?From the precedent of Joan of France to the possibility of a palace for England’s displaced queens, this episode asks how one decision might have transformed the Tudor dynasty and the religious future of England.--Support the podcast on Patreon and receive COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and access to our monthly BOOK CLUB! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Co-Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroy
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  Richard III: Honor in a Ruthless Age 06.08.2026 1h 19m

  Before Richard III became king - and long before history cast him as a villain - he built a very different reputation in the north of England.In this episode, Rebecca Larson and Matt Lewis continue Richard’s story from his marriage to Anne Neville through his rise as one of Edward IV’s most trusted lords. They examine the bitter division of the Warwick inheritance, Richard’s relationship with Anne Beauchamp, his settlement of the Percy–Neville feud, and the authority he established across northern England.Through several surviving legal disputes, a striking pattern emerges: Richard repeatedly ruled against his own retainers and social superiors when the evidence demanded it, placing equitable justice above personal advantage. The conversation also explores his refusal of a French pension, his white boar badge, the religious college he founded at Middleham, and his successful Scottish campaign, which recovered Berwick-upon-Tweed for England.Was Richard an honorable man attempting to navigate a deeply corrupt political system? This episode reveals the principled lord, capable commander, and trusted northern leader whose record stands in sharp contrast to the villain he would later become in popular history.--Support the podcast on Patreon and receive COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT: https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis
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  Anna of Denmark: The Clever Queen History Underestimated 04.08.2026 1h 3m

  Historian and bestselling author Tony Riches joins Rebecca Larson to discuss his new book, Queen Anna, and the remarkable woman behind it. Often dismissed as frivolous and shallow, Anna of Denmark was a gifted linguist, devoted mother, influential patron of the arts, and a queen who understood how to gather information and exercise influence at the Stuart court.Tony shares how newly translated letters, primary sources, and visits to historic locations helped him reclaim Anna’s story - from her elaborate court masques and architectural legacy to the devastating loss of four of her seven children. He also offers a fascinating look at his research and writing process and reveals what readers can expect from his new Stuart Queens trilogy.--Tony's Books on Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B006UZWOXA?ccs_id=33d48809-6952-4dd8-bfd3-8f1c059d0f04Tony's Books on Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B006UZWOXA--Support the podcast on Patreon and receive COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT: https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Tony Riches
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  Historical Mysteries: No Research, Just Opinions 02.08.2026 45m

  What happens when two history lovers tackle some of the past’s greatest mysteries - with no preparation, no research, and plenty of opinions? Rebecca and Amy debate whether Perkin Warbeck was really a prince, who was responsible for the deaths of Thomas Becket and Henry VI, whether Edward II escaped his fate, and what truly happened between Elizabeth I and Robert Dudley, Katherine Howard and Thomas Culpepper, and Katherine of Aragon and Prince Arthur. They also consider whether Jane Grey was truly queen, reveal their choice for the best Tudor monarch, and ask whether solving history’s mysteries would only create more questions. Plus, Amy shares a memorable behind-the-scenes story from Harvington Hall!--DON'T FORGET - SUNDAY, AUGUST 16TH IS OUT FIRST HISTORY READING ROOM MEETING (NON-book club, book club)!See info here: https://www.patreon.com/tudorsdynasty/posts/history-reading-163802931?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link--Co-hosts: Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroy
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  Richard III: Forged by Conflict 30.07.2026 1h 9m

  Long before Richard III became one of England’s most controversial kings, he was a child shaped by exile, loss and political upheaval. In this first part on Richard, Rebecca and historian Matt Lewis trace Richard’s life from his birth at Fotheringay Castle in 1452 through his first experiences of battle at Barnet and Tewkesbury in 1471.They explore Richard’s childhood during the Wars of the Roses, the deaths of his father and brother, his exile in Burgundy, his years in the Earl of Warwick’s household and the origins of his unwavering loyalty to Edward IV. They also examine his scoliosis, his early conflict with Thomas Lord Stanley and the disputed allegation that he was involved in the death of Henry VI.By the age of eighteen, Richard had already endured exile twice, witnessed his family’s dramatic rise and fall, made powerful enemies and proven himself on the battlefield. How did these turbulent early experiences shape the man—and future king—he would become?--Support the podcast on Patreon and receive COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT: https://patreon.com/tudorsdynastyLove to read? Consider joining my non-traditional book club: MORE INFO HERE--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matthew Lewis
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  Katherine Gordon: Did She Believe He Was a Prince? 28.07.2026 1h 13m

  In this episode, Rebecca is joined by Sophie Bacchus-Waterman to examine whether Katherine Gordon truly believed her first husband, Perkin Warbeck, was Richard of Shrewsbury. Drawing upon her article published in The Ricardian, Sophie explores Katherine’s will and its intriguing reference to “my cousin Margaret Kyme.” While this phrase has been used as evidence that Katherine regarded Warbeck as a prince, Sophie reveals an alternative family connection through Katherine’s second husband, James Strangeways. Together, they reconsider one of the key arguments surrounding Katherine’s beliefs and enter the wider debate over Warbeck’s identity—with Sophie 99 percent certain that he was an impostor.--Link to alleged love letter mentioned: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/rest.12864--Want to join the History Reading Room? Click here for more info: https://www.patreon.com/tudorsdynasty/posts/history-reading-163802931?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Sophie Bacchus-Waterman
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  What Got Us Into History? 26.07.2026 58m

  History isn't always something we're born loving - it often finds us in unexpected ways.This week, Amy and I step away from our usual historical discussions to share our own stories. We talk about the moments, people, places, and books that sparked our passion for the past, how genealogy and historical fiction shaped our journeys, and why history became so much more than just a subject in school.Along the way, we also discuss the realities of researching history, writing books, reviewing historical works with kindness, and the misconceptions people often have about what historians actually do.If you've ever wondered how we ended up here - or what first inspired your own love of history - this episode is for you.--Support the podcast on Patreon and receive COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT! https://patreon.comRead about the Tudors and more on my website https://tudorsdynasty.comCheck out my Substack for more recent writings by me: https://https://rebeccalarson.substack.com/--Co-Hosts: Rebecca Larson and Amy McElroy
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  Edward V: The King Who Never Wore the Crown 23.07.2026 1h 19m

  Edward V’s reign lasted only a matter of weeks - but those weeks changed the course of English history. In this episode, Rebecca and historian Matthew Lewis trace the rapidly unfolding events of 1483, from Edward IV’s unexpected death and the conflict between the Woodvilles and Lord Hastings to the arrests at Northampton, the execution of Hastings, and the revelation that would see Edward V declared illegitimate. Was Richard of Gloucester following a plan to seize the throne, or responding to one crisis after another? By examining the chronology and questioning the reliability of the surviving sources, they reconsider how Richard III came to wear the crown.--Support the podcast on Patreon and get COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT: http://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis
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  Jane Seymour: The Queen We've Been Getting Wrong 21.07.2026 1h

  For centuries, Jane Seymour has been remembered as Henry VIII's quiet, obedient third wife -the queen who gave him his long-awaited son before dying tragically in childbirth. But was there far more to her story?In this episode, I'm joined by historian Elizabeth Norton to discuss her new book, Jane Seymour: Patronage, Material Culture and Image Crafting. Drawing on years of archival research, Elizabeth reveals a Jane who was far more politically active and influential than her reputation suggests. We explore the myths that have shaped Jane's legacy, her role at court, the power she exercised through patronage and intercession, and what her household, possessions, and estates reveal about the woman behind the crown.If you think you know Jane Seymour, this conversation may change your mind.Order your copy of the book ⁠HERE--Support the podcast over on Patreon and receive EARLY ACCESS, COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Elizabeth Norton
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  What If Jane Grey Had Remained Queen? (Replay) 19.07.2026 55m

  Amy's was on vacation and I am running out of topic ideas for this week so I decided to revisit one of our most popular episodes.What if Lady Jane Grey had outwitted Mary Tudor and stayed Queen of England?In this Off the Record episode, we follow the most fascinating “what if” in Tudor history: a world where Jane’s reign doesn’t end after nine days - but becomes the start of something far bigger (and far more dangerous). Together we unpack what would have needed to change for Jane to keep the crown, why Mary’s victory depended as much on politics as it did legitimacy, and how quickly England could have transformed under a fiercely Protestant queen.We also dig into one of the most important questions behind Jane’s claim: Edward VI’s Devise for the Succession. Was Parliament even in session when Edward began drafting it - and did he actually have time to legalize it before his death? The answer might surprise you… and it changes how we understand just how fragile Jane’s crown truly was.A coup, a crisis of legitimacy, and a teenage queen at the center of a kingdom on the edge - this is Tudor alternate history at its most dramatic.--Support the podcast on Patreon and get COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Co-Hosts: Rebecca Larson & Amy McElroy
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  Edward IV: The Price of Power 16.07.2026 1h 11m

  Edward IV's dramatic return to the throne in 1471 brought an end to the Lancastrian challenge - but not to the dangers facing England.In this episode, Matt Lewis and I explore the second half of Edward IV's reign, beginning with the decisive victory at Tewkesbury and the deaths of Henry VI and his son, Edward of Westminster. We examine the fate of Margaret of Anjou, the controversial execution of George, Duke of Clarence, Edward's diplomatic gamble with France, and the growing tensions that threatened the stability he had worked so hard to achieve.By the time Edward died unexpectedly in 1483 at just forty years old, he left behind a twelve-year-old heir, an uncertain political future, and a kingdom on the brink of another succession crisis. It was a reign that ended not with triumph, but with the seeds of one of England's greatest royal mysteries.Matt's Wars of the Roses book on Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Wars-Roses-Players-Struggle-Supremacy/dp/1445660237/encoding=UTF8&pdrd_w=XfKTp&content-id=amzn1.sym.f8e88413-4697-42ea-9bf7-b28eb886330d&pf_rd_p=f8e88413-4697-42ea-9bf7-b28eb886330d&pf_rd_r=132-7377516-1645627&pd_rd_wg=GwWFA&pd_rd_r=ebce769c-c434-4402-883d-bdc6fee0d0ed--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matthew Lewis
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  Margaret of Austria: A Story of Resilience 14.07.2026 1h 1m

  Today, I am joined by award-winning historical fiction author Roja Gaston to discuss her novel on Margaret of Austria — daughter of Maximilian I, aunt to Charles V, and one of Renaissance Europe’s most powerful women.Together, they explore Margaret’s remarkable life: her early betrothal to the French king, her marriages to Juan of Spain and Philibert of Savoy, her role as regent of the Burgundian Habsburg Netherlands, and her lasting legacy as a political force, diplomat, patron, and survivor. They also discuss Margaret’s connection to Catherine of Aragon and Anne Boleyn, her famous motto — “Fortune, misfortune fortifies one” — and how her resilience shaped both her life and Gaston’s novel.Rozsa's books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0084F8MJE?ccs_id=61d489f4-cc9e-4a8d-9045-e387281792c7--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Rozsa Gaston
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  Traveling Back in Time to Witness History, Pt. 3 12.07.2026 1h

  Today, we decided to return to the same topic as before and we discuss moments in history that we would like to travel back to and experience. There are a few times things got a bit goofy during this one, so if you're opposed to laughter - skip this one.What times would you like to travel back to? What do you think of OUR choices?--Co-Hosts:Rebecca LarsonAmy McElroy
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  Edward IV: Allies, Enemies, and Exile 09.07.2026 1h 13m

  Edward IV's reign began with spectacular victories, but it was nearly undone by betrayal.In Part 1 of our series, Matt Lewis joins me to explore Edward's rise to the throne following the Battle of Towton, his consolidation of power, and the growing rift with Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick - the Kingmaker. We discuss Edward's secret marriage to Elizabeth Woodville, the political fallout that followed, Warwick's rebellion, and the dramatic events that forced Edward into exile.Join us as we uncover how one of England's greatest warrior kings went from triumph to the brink of losing everything. In Part 2, we'll follow Edward's return to reclaim his crown and the rest of his remarkable reign.--Support the podcast on Patreon and receive COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE CONTENT: https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis
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  York vs. Somerset: Obsession, Ambition, and the Origins of the Wars of the Roses 07.07.2026 1h 12m

  For generations, the story of the Wars of the Roses has largely been told through a Yorkist lens. But what if we've been looking at the rivalry between Richard, Duke of York, and Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset, all wrong?In this fascinating conversation, Dr. Michael Jones presents the Lancastrian case, challenging some of the most deeply rooted assumptions about the conflict that divided medieval England. Was Somerset really the corrupt, incompetent favorite of Henry VI, or was he a gifted commander and loyal servant of the Crown? Was York motivated by a desire to save the kingdom, or by personal ambition and an obsession with bringing down his rival?Together, we explore the origins of one of England's greatest political feuds, from the Calais campaign of 1436 through the loss of Normandy and the First Battle of St. Albans. Along the way, we also reconsider Henry VI himself - not as a weak and easily manipulated king, but as an intelligent, principled ruler whose vision for peace has often been overshadowed by centuries of hostile tradition.Whether you agree with Dr. Jones's conclusions or not, this episode offers a compelling alternative perspective on the men, motives, and decisions that led England into the Wars of the Roses - and invites us to question just how much of history has been shaped by the victors who wrote it.--Support the podcast on Patreon and receive COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Dr. Michael Jones
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  Henry VI: From Crisis to Civil War 02.07.2026 1h 15m

  Matt Lewis returns to continue our journey through the reign of Henry VI - and things are about to fall apart.Picking up in 1450, we explore the events that plunged England into the Wars of the Roses. Was Richard, Duke of York, really determined to take the throne, or has history misunderstood his intentions? Time and again, York had opportunities to overthrow Henry VI, yet repeatedly stopped short. So why did the kingdom descend into civil war anyway?We discuss Henry's catastrophic political indecision, his unwavering trust in Edmund Beaufort, Duke of Somerset, his mental collapse in 1453, the First Battle of St Albans, the ill-fated Love Day, the dramatic Act of Accord, and the death of Richard of York at Wakefield. Along the way, we examine the choices - and failures - that shaped one of the most turbulent periods in English history.We also tackle one of the biggest questions surrounding Henry VI: what really happened in the Tower of London in May 1471? Was the deposed king murdered, or did he simply succumb to grief and illness after the destruction of his Lancastrian cause?Join us as we conclude the story of Henry VI - a king whose inability to choose a side may have changed the course of English history forever.--Support the podcast on Patreon and get COMMERCIAL-FREE episodes, EARLY ACCESS, and EXCLUSIVE content! https://patreon.com/tudorsdynasty--Host: Rebecca LarsonGuest: Matt Lewis