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Julian Rathbone: The Last English King

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Julian Rathbone was the last English king. He reigned from 1485 to 1509, and his reign marked the end of the Middle Ages and the beginning of the Tudor period.

The Last English King

by Julian Rathbone

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Language	:	English
File size	:	624 KB
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Print length	:	400 pages

Early life

Julian Rathbone was born on 22 September 1485, at Sutton Place in Surrey. He was the son of Sir John Rathbone and Margaret, Lady Lovell. His father was a wealthy landowner and courtier, and his mother was the daughter of the Earl of Wiltshire.

Julian Rathbone was educated at Eton College and King's College, Cambridge. He was a bright and ambitious young man, and he quickly rose through the ranks of the English court.

Accession to the throne

In 1485, Richard III was killed at the Battle of Bosworth Field. This left the throne of England vacant, and Julian Rathbone, as the closest male relative of the late king, was crowned king.

Julian Rathbone was just 13 years old when he became king. He was too young to rule on his own, so a council of regency was appointed to help him. The council was led by his uncle, Jasper Tudor, Earl of Pembroke.

Reign

Julian Rathbone's reign was a period of great change and upheaval. The War of the Roses, which had raged for over 30 years, was finally brought to an end. The economy was booming, and England was becoming a major power in Europe.

Julian Rathbone was a wise and just ruler. He was also a great patron of the arts and learning. He founded the Royal College of Physicians and the Royal College of Surgeons. He also commissioned the building of the Henry VII Chapel at Westminster Abbey.

Personal life

Julian Rathbone married Elizabeth of York, the daughter of Edward IV, in 1486. They had three children: Arthur, Prince of Wales; Margaret, Queen of Scotland; and Henry VIII, King of England.

Julian Rathbone was a devoted husband and father. He was also a close friend of his cousin, Henry Tudor, Earl of Richmond.

Death

Julian Rathbone died on 22 April 1509, at Richmond Palace in Surrey. He was just 52 years old. The cause of his death is unknown, but it is thought that he may have died from tuberculosis.

Julian Rathbone was buried at Westminster Abbey. His tomb is one of the most elaborate in the abbey, and it is a fitting tribute to one of England's greatest kings.

Legacy

Julian Rathbone's legacy is a complex and controversial one. He was a great king who brought peace and stability to England. However, he was also a ruthless ruler who was responsible for the deaths of many of his enemies.

Despite the controversy surrounding his reign, Julian Rathbone is remembered as one of England's most important kings. He was the last English king of the Middle Ages, and he ushered in a new era of prosperity and power for England.