June 21 - Catherine of Aragon steals the show

📅 June 21st: Catherine of Aragon's Defiant Stand

On June 21, 1529, in a dramatic moment of Tudor history, Catherine of Aragon and Henry VIII appeared at a special court to determine the fate of their marriage. This court, presided over by Cardinals Wolsey and Campeggio, was set to decide on the annulment Henry sought.

Catherine made a heartfelt plea, kneeling before Henry and delivering what historian David Starkey calls “the speech of her life.” She passionately defended her honour and their marriage, stating she had always been a true, obedient wife and challenging the fairness of the court.

Henry responded by praising Catherine's virtues but reiterated his concerns about their marriage, citing his troubled conscience.

Despite Catherine's compelling speech, the court was adjourned and never reconvened, leaving the annulment unresolved until 1533. Catherine's courage and eloquence that day are still remembered as a powerful testament to her character.

🔍 Watch now to witness this pivotal moment in history!