Henry VIII is the most recognised King in the annals of England. But had it not been for the early death of his brother Arthur, the infamous Tudor ruler would have been little more than a footnote in history.
A new book, available for pre-order today, explores the short life of Arthur, Prince of Wales and eldest son of Henry VII, the first Tudor King. Though his life was tragically cut short by a mysterious illness at the age of 15, the book shows how Arthur was raised at the centre of one of the most tumultuous period of England’s history. Young though he was, he came tantalising close to forging his own future.
The book is penned by Royal History Geeks creator Gareth Streeter and published by Pen & Sword history.
Gareth says, “For too long, Arthur Tudor has been remembered only for what he never became. The boy who died prematurely and paved the way for the revolutionary reign of his younger brother, Henry VIII.
“Yet, during his short life, Arthur was at the centre of one of the most tumultuous periods of England’s history. At the time of his birth, he represented his father’s hopes for a dynasty and England’s greatest chance of peace. As he grew, he witnessed feuds, survived rebellion and became the focal point of an international alliance.
“From the threat of pretenders to West Country rebellions, the dramatic twists and turns of early Tudor England preoccupied Arthur’s thoughts. At a young age, he was dispatched to the Welsh border, becoming a figurehead for a robust regional government. While never old enough to exercise full power in his dominion, he emerged as a figure of influence, beseeched by petitioners and consulted by courtiers. While the extent of his personal influence can only be guessed at, the sources that survive reveal a determined prince that came tantalisingly close to forging his future.”
‘Arthur, Prince of Wales: Henry VIII’s lost brother’ shows that Arthur Tudor was more than a prince who died. He was a boy that really lived. It is available for pre-order from today from the P&S website, Amazon, Waterstones and other online bookstores. It will be available in book shops from 30 May 2023.