OTD in 1856, The Great Bell of the Palace of Westminster’s clock chimed for the first time Affectionately known as “Big Ben” the clock was given its nickname during the reign of Queen Victoria

What really happened at the end of the Tudor dynasty? Elizabeth I refused to name an heir–so who would be next? It wasn’t the easy answer we’ve been led to believe. Tracy Borman shares the real story of the Tudor to Stuart transition. Royals, Rebels, and Romantics episode 232!

OTD in 1534, the French ambassador, Philippe de Chabot, arrived in England He was there to negotiate a possible marriage between a French prince and young Princess Elizabeth, daughter of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn

Meet Joan Beaufort, granddaughter of John of Gaunt She was of English royal blood, related to Edward III, Richard II, and Henry IV She married James I of Scotland in 1424 After her husband’s assassination in 1437, her son became James II She married James Stewart and died in 1445

👨‍⚖️ OTD 1485, the First Tudor Parliament Opened, with the new king, Henry VII, seated upon his throne. Among the order of business was Henry's claim to the throne, the status of his intended bride and the Princes in the Tower, and the attainder of Richard III. Link in bio

James had a warm welcome in England, but there were two conspiracies the first year of his reign The Gunpowder Plot, planned to blow up the state opening of the king’s first parliament, was one of the most dangerous plots that shook the nation

Tracy Borman joins Royals, Rebels, and Romantics TODAY! The royal succession of 1603 was more complicated than we’ve been led to believe. Tracy explores the plotting and deception that brought the Scots King to the English throne. Available wherever you like to listen.

Happy Tudor Tuesday Elizabeth I named an heir and her death marked the end of the Tudor dynasty How did James VI become King of England? @TracyBorman joins Royals, Rebels, and Romantics tomorrow to talk about her new book, Stolen Crown. Out today in the US!

https://t.co/hOVoiQUbgA

Have you heard about the curse of Shakespeare’s Macbeth? Rumor has it the play is cursed and saying “Macbeth” in a theatre puts you in danger. Many refer to the play as “the Scottish play” just to be safe.

Counting down to my chat with @brendameller ! What do Abraham Lincoln, Winston Churchill, the Beatles, and Taylor Swift have in common? 😉 Join us TODAY! https://t.co/CQMgxY7ss2

Have you listened to Ramie Targoff’s episode yet? She shares her wonderful book, Shakespeare’s Sisters: Four Women Who Wrote the Renaissance. Shakespeare and his buddies were NOT the only writers in sixteenth century London.

GET INVOLVED. #NationalChocolateDay

Here's what might get you accused of being a witch in Tudor Times. Being older and living by yourself Talking to yourself Having pets that follow you around Holding ceremonies or using herbs Having a “witch spot” (of any kind!) on your body Living alone Would you survive?

Meet a famous witch: Alice Kyteler! Alice was the first woman condemned for witchcraft in Ireland. Because of her wealth, locals and her stepson turned against her, and she was accused of a Satanic conspiracy in 1324. Alice escaped, but her associate Petronilla was burned.

https://t.co/eQ6DMSgovD

This has it all: one of my FAVE podcasts @BaroquePodcast and one of my FAVE #Shakespeare experts @Freeburian speaking about one of my FAVE movies #ShakespeareInLove! ❤️👏

Today I celebrated the #BattleofAgincourt by giving a talk at #TEDxWarrenton about Shakespeare's leadership lessons, featuring Henry V, Juliet, & Isabella. Want to know more? Watch this space!

I voted today. Virginia's governor race. It was the very least I could do. Please vote. #savedemocracy #onevoteatatime #pleasevote #voteforyourlife

So excited about #TEDxWarrenton tomorrow! Ready for some #Shakespeare surprises?