The Tudor Society

12 June – Richard Rich, lawyer and torturer

Richard Rich, 1st Baron Rich, died on 12th June 1567. He's not one of my favourite Tudor men and you can find out why in this edition of #TudorHistoryShorts.

Just what was his involvement in the cases of Sir Thomas More and Anne Askew?

On this day in Tudor history, 12th June 1540, a clearly frightened Thomas Cromwell, who was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his arrest on 10th June for treason, wrote to King Henry VIII regarding his “most miserable state”, asking for mercy, and pleading his innocence.

I share Cromwell's letter in this video. It is an eloquent letter but also a very moving one. His fear is palpable.

Also on this day in Tudor history, 12th June 1530, Catherine of Aragon got rather cross with Henry VIII.

Find out why...

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12 June – Richard Rich, lawyer and torturer