Mary Tudor facts for kids

Mary Tudor is a name shared by two important women from English history, both connected to the famous Tudor royal family. One was the younger sister of King Henry VIII, who became Queen of France. The other was Henry VIII's daughter, who later became Queen of England.

Mary Tudor, Queen of France

Mary Tudor was born on 18 March 1496. She was the youngest daughter of King Henry VII and Elizabeth of York. This made her the sister of the famous King Henry VIII. Mary was known for her beauty and charm.

First Marriage: Queen of France

In 1514, Mary married King Louis XII of France. This marriage was part of a peace treaty between England and France. King Louis was much older than Mary. Their marriage did not last long, as King Louis XII died in 1515, just a few months after they were wed.

Second Marriage: Duchess of Suffolk

After Louis XII's death, Mary quickly married Charles Brandon, the Duke of Suffolk. This marriage was a secret at first and happened without her brother King Henry VIII's permission. Henry VIII was very angry, but he eventually forgave them. Mary and Charles had several children together. Their descendants include Lady Jane Grey, who was briefly Queen of England. Mary Tudor died on 25 June 1533.

Mary I of England

Mary I was born on 18 February 1516. She was the only surviving child of King Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. Mary's early life was difficult because her parents' marriage ended. Her father, Henry VIII, wanted a male heir and divorced Catherine, which led to the creation of the Church of England.

Becoming Queen

After her half-brother King Edward VI died in 1553, there was a brief attempt to put Lady Jane Grey on the throne. However, Mary had strong support and successfully claimed her right to be queen. She was crowned Queen of England on 1 October 1553.

Reign and Policies

Queen Mary I was a strong believer in the Catholic faith. During her reign, she worked to bring England back under the authority of the Pope and the Catholic Church. This was a big change from the Protestant reforms that had happened under her father and brother. She married Philip II of Spain in 1554. This marriage was not popular with many English people. Mary I died on 17 November 1558. Her half-sister, Elizabeth I, then became queen.