The Tudor Society

17 May – Around the throne the thunder rolls

On 17th May 1536, poet, courtier and diplomat Sir Thomas Wyatt the Elder, who was imprisoned in the Tower of London, witnessed the executions of his fellow courtiers, George Boleyn, Henry Norris, Sir Francis Weston, William Brereton and Mark Smeaton.

Hear some of what he wrote about that awful day.

For more details on the men's executions, watch this video:

On this day in Tudor history, 17th May 1601, Anthony Bacon was buried in St Olave's, London.

You might have heard of Francis Bacon, but his brother, Anthony Bacon, was rather interesting too!

Who was Anthony Bacon?

Well, he was a spy, providing intelligence for the likes of William Cecil, Sir Francis Walsingham, Elizabeth I and Robert Devereux, Earl of Essex. Find out more...

Also on this day in Tudor history, 17th May 1521, Edward Stafford, 3rd Duke of Buckingham, was executed for treason on Tower Hill. He'd served King Henry VII and King Henry VIII loyally for many years, so what led to this nobleman being condemned for high treason? Find out...

Only 1 comment so far Go To Comment

  1. C

    I was really interested in the Anthony Bacon video but was unable to find the biography you mentioned. Could you let me know details, please. Sorry to bother you.

    Clare

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17 May – Around the throne the thunder rolls