Questions about Anne Boleyn's Execution

[@wandaholmes7125]

Thank You, Claire. Anne Boleyn was murdered.

[@katet4554]

I always think how much braver these people were, than I could have been, on the scaffold.

[@tanyaphilstrom7077]

I was thinking that as well. Also how different the daily life was.

[@charlottebruce979]

My legs would have buckled from under me and I'd be in shock, no way could I say anything and if I did I would have called Henry some choice words, OK it may have damaged my family but still I couldn't resist.

[@Little-pumpkin-w9t]

@@tanyaphilstrom7077 if I was facing the block I would be scared but I would have given my spirit to the lord

[@pessimisticideas3075]

I always immensely enjoy these vids where you answer questions! Many Thanks, Claire!

[@Lyndell-P]

🇭🇲🦘 Thank you for answering so many questions surrounding Queen Anne Boleyn's execution (or should we really say, orchestrated murder). It was especially interesting to learn that most in Europe did Not believe that Anne was guilty, even if they disliked her. cont... Henry VIII could have been a great King, and considered by many that he was. However, how ironic that his 'bastard' daughter, Elizabeth (daughter of Anne Boleyn) became one of the greatest monarchs of all time, achieving for the people of England (overall) better and safer times; and a much better monarch than her father. I have no doubt that Anne Boleyn's scaffold speech most likely helped keep her little girl (and others) alive. Anne died bravely, with honour and grace. cont... I look forward to reading the Countdown book, you mentioned, to find out more. "Thank you" Claire 💓👑👍

[@normastone1044]

@Lyndell Prewett Well said! I agree with you completely. Can you imagine how history would have played out if Elizabeth had been a boy? Funny how all of the astrologers Henry and Anne consulted said the baby would be a prince. Like they would have dared to not tell them what they wanted to hear...lol.

[@lizmunt9116]

Appalling

[@Story-Voracious66]

Thanks so much Claire for this talk. It really puts the whole affair, succinctly into perspective. I remember as a child in primary school having a letter sent home to my Mum over a drawing I had done of Anne's execution. I think that the teacher must have worried that I was some kind of little monster, seeing a two stick people with one decapitated, and the other waving a bloody red crayon sword! Me being the weird little pedant thought at 7 years old that the story about the sword should be told. Thankfully, after an explanation I was more favoured by my teacher than avoided, like on that Art Day. I find it fitting now, that her body was placed in a bow box; the lithe, little arrow huntress that she was. 🏵️🏵️🏵️

[@Shane-Flanagan]

A lot consider it an insult that Anne's remains were folded into an arrow chest 🧰. It's laughable how Henry could order a French swordsman to do the deed but didn't think to order a coffin ⚰️

[@pamelaoliver8442]

Oh I'm sure he had a thought..but how to bury a discarded queen? In true HR8 fashion, that was left to someone else

[@beckyannaldersonornold7512]

I've loved Queen Anne since first seeing the movie Anne Of A Thousand Days. She ultimately prevailed through her daughter Queen Elizabeth I.

[@louise-yo7kz]

@Becky Ann, yes she was.

[@shesaknitter]

That is one of my favorite movies, too. I watch it at least twice a year.

[@tracymcardle1236]

I had the DVD of that film its wonderful, Genevieve was so great as Anne👏👏👏👏👏👏💕💕💕

[@roxymcdonald6518]

At this point in his life, Henry seemed to be tyrannical. The execution of an anointed queen must have sent shock waves through Europe and England. Eleanor of Aquitaine was complicit in a rebellion against her husband, Henry II and she was locked up, not murdered!!!

[@RudesMom]

But her husband had legitimate sons.

[@montrelouisebohon-harris7023]

I totally agree and I think that everything that Henry was going through with the Catholic Church and then later when he executed Sir Thomas More, he went absolutely nuts. Sir Thomas More would not sign that oath allegiance to him because Sir Thomas More was faithful to the Catholic church and he knew that too much power in the hands of Henry was a nightmare. most people signed it even if they did not feel that way just to save their own lives but Thomas wouldn't sign it because he wasn't going to lie and go against his conscience. it just seems really ironic that after Thomas More's execution Henry was being more irate with Anne Boleyn and everything started to fall apart. Henry the 8th that was an egotistical and arrogant vain King but that was for about the first 20 years. then he went through this four or five year. Of transition where he was on his way 2 separating from the Catholic church since they would not give him an annulment from Catherine and then Henry sent Catherine away. Henry separated Catherine and Mary and it seemed like every awful decision that he made he blamed on somebody else. " they made me treat them like crap". that's a very narcissistic quality and I wonder if he had narcissistic personality disorder or if he had the trait.

[@Froghood1]

To Catholic Europe, at least, Anne was not an anointed queen but "The Concubine".

[@roxymcdonald6518]

Jill Padelford: Yes, Henry and Eleanor had several sons and some of them led the rebellion with their mother. I think that John was the only one who didn’t. Henry II forgave them.

[@roxymcdonald6518]

Montre' Louise Bohon-Harris: Perhaps Henry VIII did have a narcissistic personality disorder. He had been told all his life that he only had to answer to God. No one was his equal on Earth. 🌎

[@mimimatasar3699]

So interesting , thanks Claire.

[@jamesharwell3276]

So glad I found this channel. Thank you so much.

[@anneboleynfiles]

Thank you!

[@mizfrenchtwist]

this is so sad , i have come to like anne . if only things could have been different for her........great share......

[@annjohnson6193]

This always makes me so sad.

[@kaliwindx7287]

As always, an excellent video. I certainly enjoy the quality of your videos Claire. Thank you so much for the hard work that goes into making such informative videos. You are much appreciated.

[@anneboleynfiles]

Thank you so much! That means a lot to me.

[@maryannlockwood7806]

Why do some women think a guy who’s bad to his 1st wife won’t do the same, if not worse, to them. This was a great video, Claire. 🧐👑

[@annjohnson6193]

Women still think the same thing. Then and now.

[@clockwinder2924]

@Ann Johnson, that’s exactly what I thought - some things never change. (Edit; I should say that I agree with you and had the same thought. What I wrote could be construed quite differently!)

[@Sabrinajaine]

I see your point but it sounds a bit like victim blaming, plus a queen had never been executed before so there's no way Anne could have seen it coming, it was probably as shocking for her as it was for everyone else

[@LaPetiteBoulin]

The wives of Henry VIII didn't really have the option of saying no. There is reason to believe that Anne herself tried to be out of his sight for years. That isn't the move of someone who doesn't want to be forgotten. I'm pretty sure Claire has a video making her case on this. Without a doubt, the wives after Queen Anne didn't have no as an option.

[@Cypresssina]

Because people can be manipulative sacks of cod. He probably blamed Katherine for everything and was so besotted with Anne at first that she truly believed he felt differently toward Anne.

[@AITrademarket]

Thanks for this video Claire, it’s good to know that even Eustace Chapuys was convinced of the dubiety of the charges against Anne.

[@REM1956]

Thank you, Ms. Ridgway. I'm enjoying your videos very much.

[@anneboleynfiles]

I'm so glad!

[@Liz_678]

Very interesting 🧐. Thanks for answering questions. Clears up some I had

[@annettefournier9655]

Thanks Claire. That is shocking that they prepared no coffin for her and put her in an equipment chest.😔💜

[@shesaknitter]

@Javier Ramirez Henry destroyed Catherine of Aragon. Anne avoided the King's attentions for years before she gave in, and his marriage to Catherine had died, in a sense, long before because of her failure to provide Henry with a son. Anne gave in as most did in that time. You don't say "no," to a king. I mean, you can for a while, but eventually, people usually caved, especially women people!

[@pietrodinoto9718]

different profile: so then it was someone else they beheaded and anne Boleyn was taken away and hidden till death.

[@Shane-Flanagan]

It's laughable how Henry thought of ordering a French swordsman to do the deed but didn't think to provide a coffin, something so logical

[@crystalhastings4455]

Loved the video Claire! I always wanted to know if anyone has ever made, or attempted, an artistic or forensic representation of Anne Boleyn. There are several artistic renditions of her in literature and media far and wide...but I wondered if someone ever took legitimate sources to flesh her out. To make as close a bust one can with those resources available.

[@anneboleynfiles]

There was never any attempt to use her skull, we just have the portraits which date to Elizabeth I's reign, and then the 1534 medal, which is rather crude.

[@jayneneewing2369]

What a fun Q & A. As always, thank you.

[@stephanietorres5679]

King henry was just evil and narcissistic!!

[@CindersVale]

I remember reading once that executioners tried to be anonymous to avoid being the target of revenge by the family and friends of those they had executed. I always learn something new from your videos, Claire. Many thanks for another great video.

[@ianslass]

Thank you! So informative...I love it! Oh and I love your hair...cut and color. Very sleek and classy!

[@anneboleynfiles]

Oh thank you!

[@jamesdevine1005]

Well presented ,thank you.

[@neelhalli]

Henry viii was brutal dictator. Two of his wives executed. How Strange Catherine Howard was beheaded by Henry Viii accusing her of adultery with the Culpepper fella. And Jane Seymore dies 12 days after giving birth to Edward vi

[@jamieyoho2310]

Katharine was probably innocent too. Its too bad shes always portrayed as the harlot.

[@SmartStart24]

Oh shit do you think he had something to do with Jane’s death?

[@sassytbc7923]

SmartStart24 why would you suggest that Henry would have part in the death of the only wife who gave him a son, and who. He loved enough to request burial beside her. That doesn’t make any sense.

[@SmartStart24]

sassy tbc lol because the original commenter said it was “strange” so I was asking if he thought that? I may have misread the comment tho 🤷🏾‍♀️

[@shesaknitter]

@@jamieyoho2310 I think there was plenty of documentation about Katherine Howard's adultery. And Jane Seymour's death was hardly Henry's fault.

[@jeffbaxter8770]

Stunning commentary, thank you for this fascinating snd comprehensive posting. South Africa

[@robertdudley4017]

Thank you Claire. Queen Ann was innocent of any of the charges brought against her. She died with great courage one of the saddest parts is that they put her body in an arrow box/chest surely she deserved better 🤔🤔

[@Shane-Flanagan]

It's laughable how Henry thought of ordering a French swordsman to do the deadly deed but didn't think to provide a coffin, something so logical.

[@robertdudley4017]

@@Shane-Flanagan indeed I agree

[@katiew2514]

You are just so wonderful Claire! Thank you for showing me that there was someone out there ( much more qualified and mature, however 😂) that geeks out and adores Anne Boleyn the way I have since I was a young girl learning about her from my mum. I adore you too, now ! Many thanks xx

[@darlenefarmer5921]

Neat! Thank you.

[@janisjoplin4647]

Why would she expect better treatment than Henry gave poor Catherine? She was separated from her daughter, just like Catherine, and Henry wanted nothing more to do with her meaning no response to letters written to him. It is outrageous that he murdered her instead of divorce and sending her away like Catherine. If presented with death or leave, even though she would not to leave, do you believe she would leave if presented the alternative?

[@victoriakmartin]

She expected to have a son, after which she would have likely been untouchable.

[@caroletraynor8763]

Catherine was a true princess so Henry would not dare to kill her like he did with Anne, if he had then it would have resulted in a war. That's my opinion anyway.

[@LaPetiteBoulin]

There was no precedence for what happened to Anne. What we know of the beginning of their relationship is that he was obsessed with her. People want to act like Anne was the predator who knew what she was getting herself into. 1. He was married. 2. She removed herself from for years. 3. We can see from Henry's letters to Anne that she wasn't the one pursing him. 4. Her father wrote to the king saying he thought a relationship was a bad idea and he didn't like it. For us to believe this woman knew that the king would divorce his wife, break from the church, and marry her when it had never happened before, is a bit hard to believe. That isn't even touching on the execution of a queen. Another HUGE point, women didn't have the choices we like to paint Anne as having. There isn't any contemporary evidence that her father or uncle forced her into this (there is evidence that her Father tried to stop it.) But one couldn't say no to the king. None of his wives had any real choice in the matter. If the king wanted them then they belonged to him. Remember that Henry divorcing Catherine & all he did to her hadn't happened yet. Even then, many historians believe Henry VIII truly believed his marriage was invalid. There is no reason for us to assume that Anne disagreed with him when you take in their religious views. We simply can't look at this from modern eyes.

[@Cypresssina]

@@LaPetiteBoulin Everything thing you just said.

[@montrelouisebohon-harris7023]

In most ways Henry treated Catherine of Aragon a lot better than he treated an because he had more respect for Catherine overall.

[@nkley1]

Always such wonderful videos you do make!

[@anneboleynfiles]

Thank you!

[@beverlyfletcher4458]

Great idea, thank you.

[@Sabrinajaine]

I was thinking about this yesterday after watching your Teasel's Tudor Trivia video on dining in Tudor times - what was Anne's last meal? Probably not that exciting if it was just porridge or whatever, but I'm curious anyway. Also, what was the point of blindfolding people before beheading them?

[@anneboleynfiles]

There aren't any details on her last meal, I'm afraid. I'm not entirely sure why people were blindfolded, perhaps for dignity or so they didn't know when the blow was coming.

[@nancybeveridgetaylor3256]

Probably to avoid the natural human response to threat, to avoid a blow. A natural human response to our fear of death.

[@3John-Bishop]

@@anneboleynfiles question: If Catherine of Aragon had produced a male heir would England have remained a Catholic country?

[@anneboleynfiles]

@@3John-Bishop that's impossible to say. Ideas from the Continent were coming in so perhaps the English Reformation would still have happened, but just later.

[@Shane-Flanagan]

@@anneboleynfiles At what time exactly do you believe Anne Boleyn was executed on the morning of May 19th 1536. Also, do you believe the body that was exhumed and reintered under Anne's memorial was that of Anne Boleyn or possibly Jane Boleyn, Lady Rochford?

[@goldenineke]

Thank you. I’m really enjoying your videos. I wonder what the future Elizabeth was told about her mother’s death?

[@pollydolly9723]

Poor Anne.

[@kepckatherinec805]

Thank you for yet another informative, fascinating video!💐

[@janvan113]

Loved the video Claire! I never knew or thought much about Tudor history or Anne Boleyn until I watched the Netflix series The Tudors last year. Since then, I have been fascinated. I have watched many of your videos, but rarely comment. I so enjoy learning further details that aren't typically included on the series or other movies, as well as some small corrections to their historical accuracy. For the most part, the series does seem to follow pretty closely what was actually documented. But it's very interesting to hear the real version of details. In any form, Anne's story is a tragic one, being so unjustly accused and what could only be called, brutally murdered. Her fall from grace was swift and heartless. I found it absolutely fascinating to learn the probably reason for her gracious last statements, before she was beheaded. She was trying to "die well", but also displaying concern for her daughter's and family's future welfare. I can only imagine how difficult it was to do that. Most people would probably want to shout their innocence at such a time but she was thinking of others before herself.

[@janvan113]

"probable" not "probably". lol

[@LaPetiteBoulin]

Claire, I haven't seen you in the comments lately. Hope you're well & loved the video. Could you possible make a Playlist that includes your videos on big topics to do with Anne. Things like Anne running from Henry at first, Anne not being able to know what was to come, reasons to believe her innocent..etc. That way we can quickly point people to it. Thank you!!

[@anneboleynfiles]

I take some time off from comments at weekends but I'm around! There are the following Anne playlists that might help - kzbin.info/aero/PLepqWJ7TpkrIov3Augf3dy9QDBFL1yViK, kzbin.info/aero/PLepqWJ7TpkrKpzoJ8DPHBLgzGr0Gg2IcU, kzbin.info/aero/PLepqWJ7TpkrLjVti06aNo1KLQg9Cn64FR Thank you!

[@MrGloryglorymanutd18]

Thank you Claire for your very interesting videos.

[@shesaknitter]

Very interesting today, Claire! I found especially interesting the details about the exhumation of Anne's body, and the reaction in Europe to Anne's execution. Apparently many of that time shared (with we moderns) the almost universal skepticism about her guilt. Those charges were so ridiculous. Henry should have been ashamed of himself. But that would be uncharacteristic of the tyrant that he was by that point in his life and reign. My father was born on the date of Anne's execution.

[@anneboleynfiles]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@annewren8845]

Strangely enough, Prince Harry and Megan were married on the anniversary of Annes’ execution.

[@fowleheidi482]

Thanks Claire!

[@annalisette5897]

No matter how many questions are answered, I don't think I can wrap my head around, WHY? Henry executing his own queen, wife, and mother of his child apparently was considered bad manners on the continent. Henry ended up with a lot of nasty labels that were well deserved though I think he had many great accomplishments in his reign.

[@Shane-Flanagan]

Henry wouldn't settle for a divorce because his ego couldn't bear people saying "I told you so Henry"

[@khanachphunmaltby700]

Thank you so clear message

[@bombshellmusical9566]

One thing I always wondered. If the swordsman was considered to be a quicker & less painful death, why didn't others request it? Or did they request it and were refused?

[@pamelawing626]

You'd think Catherine , knowing what happened to her cousin, would have been more prudent. I know she really had no choice in having to marry him, but should really should have been more careful. I realize how young she was, more the pity.

[@isobelduncan]

Katherine didn’t have the best upbringing. She was raised by her step grandmother in a boarding house along with several other girls. She didn’t have much involvement or interest in their welfare. As a result the girls were undisciplined and often invited men into their chambers at night. You can imagine the impact that would’ve had on an impressionable teenager.

[@Shane-Flanagan]

@@isobelduncan Exactly 👍

[@Shane-Flanagan]

Although they were cousins, we don't know if Anne and Catherine actually ever met or knew of one another. Also there is no definite proof of a sexual affair between Catherine and Culpeper. It depends on how you interpret her letters.

[@susanmason6476]

I really enjoyed listening to you wonderful thank you

[@eveywrens]

Was it true there was a one -day delay in her execution.? This scenario appears in novels. Thank you for another compelling video, Claire. Be well.

[@anneboleynfiles]

Yes, there was. Anne prepared herself to died on 18th May and waited and waited, only to be told later that day that her execution would take place on 19th instead.

[@mgthestrange9098]

Why was it delayed?

[@whoeveriam789]

@@mgthestrange9098 Her executioner hadn't arrived yet. I'm not sure what for though, maybe"traffic" or transport delays.

[@pamelaoliver8442]

Actually Cromwell wanted the tower cleared ..

[@lisaanderson758]

Thanks, very interesting to hear this. 🇬🇧

[@TheConman761]

Thanks Claire for answering the Europe question, appreciate it :)

[@ariellann4555]

I'm going as Anne for halloween, i'll be the most happy!

[@elsiegreenwich1382]

When I went as Anne, it was the best Halloween ever!!

[@leticiagarcia9025]

Scaffold etiquette aside, she was brave during last minutes of her life. I have a question about Henry’s tyranny. It’s been suggested that he had McLeod Syndrome, chronic pain or traumatic brain injury. I don’t think he had McLeod. Chronic pain sufferers experience depression and anger, but not madness. Brain injury fits. From all your research on Tudor history did you find letters detailing his change in attitude after his jousting accident? I’m a very curious person. I read many articles on this subject. They only provided theories. I welcome your point of view.

[@anneboleynfiles]

I have found no evidence at all to support the idea that he became worse after that accident. He started his reign executing Empson and Dudley as scapegoats and before his accident he'd executed Buckingham, More, Fisher, the Carthusian monks, Elizabeth Barton... He was already brutal.

[@leticiagarcia9025]

The Anne Boleyn Files and Tudor Society Thank you. I knew of his ruthlessness before his accident. Like I said before there have been many articles on what caused his tyranny. I knew you would give me a straight answer. Thanks again for responding to my question.

[@reythejediladyviajakku6078]

I bet Mary was pleased as a peach when this happened. She must have been like “good riddance, stepmother “

[@isobelduncan]

Anne did actually write to Mary to make amends and ask for forgiveness. But sadly things only got worse for her after Anne’s death.

[@reythejediladyviajakku6078]

@@isobelduncan I remember that Anne did try to make amends with Mary but Mary, I don’t think ever forgave her stepmother for what happened to her mother

[@jumaris28]

Very informative as usual Thanks Claire always wondered what the Nobles of Europe said of her wrongfully execution

[@cindyrobinson3077]

So interesting and so sad learning all about her

[@jobes4525]

I read a lot of historical documentation about Anne, but always come here, The Anne Boleyn Files to check it. TY 🙏

[@garypaulflynn9596]

I have been a viewer since the start of This Day in Tudor History and look forward to the daily vlogs. Teasels videos are a great pleasure along with cameo appearances by Madge the cat. The ambassador Sharpwee (spelling?) seems to come up quite often. Could you do a detailed video about who he was? He seems to have been in England for a great number of years and sounds like a very interesting personage.

[@anneboleynfiles]

Yes, Eustace Chapuys, is a fascinating man and his dispatches are so very useful. I'd recommend Lauren Mackay's book on him.

[@cloud6862]

When she died - she said apparently - all this goodly godly kind stuff about Henry - thinking about that ??? as she was standing to die I thought ''why'' would someone give such praise ? when shes just about to get her head chopped off) and then I thought as a Mother she must have 'known, had she said anything bad abut the ''good king''' her Daughters life would have been in peril)

[@KRISTIANITY_]

I always wonder about the crimson kirtle, it's absent from all the movie/TV adaptations of Anne. It's pretty plausible and typical that she'd have worn it in real life, yet modern fiction seems to dismiss it, in contrast to all the portrayals of Mary Stuart, they never seem to omit it there.

[@ladydamiana6841]

Mary considered herself a martyr for the Catholic faith she tried to promote in Scotland; red is the color of martyrdom. If Anne wore red, it might have been to make the execution seem less bloody, or perhaps she simply chose a color that became her.

[@Shane-Flanagan]

The Tudors version was near accurate in terms of clothing

[@adriftinthrift4993]

I like your hair style! I was wondering if one day in the future you could speak about which Movie of Anne Boleyn is your favorite. Is there one that is historically accurate.

[@kathykahl1996]

Anne of a thousand days.

[@felinemagic4473]

Thank you Claire. I really enjoyed the Q&A session. Anne Boleyn handled her demise as a lady, with lots of class. I have a hard time understanding how she was so hated that execution was necessary. Seems as Henry VIII was head of the church and could have arranged a divorce instead.

[@Shane-Flanagan]

Thomas Cromwell plotted Anne's downfall as she became a powerful threat to him. Henry didn't divorce Anne because he didn't want people saying "I told you so Henry". His ego couldn't bear that

[@monicacall7532]

I always have loved Christina of Denmark’s comment when Thomas Cromwell and other members of the king’s privy council were vetting her as a possible wife after Queen Jane died. She told the men that if she had two heads she would be willing to give Henry VIII the other one. Ouch! Christina was a very wise lady to have turned down the opportunity to become the Queen of England. Look what happened to Katherine Howard!

[@Shane-Flanagan]

Nothing bad would've happened to Christina if she'd married Henry as she was of nobility like Catherine of Aragon. Henry wouldn't execute a foreign royal wife for fear of war

[@flaviaviva9034]

Thank you 😊

[@Danny30011980]

Also fascinating: How you dreamt to have witnessed the whole thing. Quite a gory dream to have. Can you make a video on that one too and how it all started for you? Did you have a special interest on the persons involved before or was that dream the "Click" moment that switched you on to the Tudor history?

[@lorettabridges7751]

Reflecting on the mode of her execution by sword, Anne had a dark sense of humor and I can see her commenting on How she would prefer to be executed kneeling upright. She certainly knew that Katherine had been an exemplary wife for 20 years, yet discarded heartlessly. Kneeling upright seems more chivalric when she might have predicted he would discard her too.

[@Cartersmum23]

One additional question, Mrs. Ridgeway. I’ve always read that following the beheading of a person whom has “committed treason”, the head was held high for the crowd to see and the executioner would declare “so parish the king’s enemies” (or something similar)... was this done to Anne’s head? 😔 I sure hope not.

[@rachelpoole439]

Jenna, it wasn’t. Her ladies were prepared to maintain her dignity and as far as I know, they were the only ones who covered and handled her remains.

[@Cartersmum23]

Rachel Poole , well that’s a relief. She already was meant to have lost her dignity through that farce of a trial, at least she was spared that in death. Thanks for sharing ☺️.

[@anneboleynfiles]

The main sources do not mention that, no.

[@chittyluv2651]

Fascinating Story.

[@fionarhiannonpitbullextrao5786]

This is extremely interesting information. Honestly, the fact that Eustace Chapuys was actually lending his support to her probable innocence says ALOT to me. That man must have outright HATED HRH Queen Anne Boleyn, after all that happened with HRH Katherine and HRH Mary. Then he actually spoke out saying she was in all probability innocent of ALL charges?? Must have galled him to do it, but he did it. It really does make it so much more believable that even her enemies defended her innocence. Honestly, I wouldn't doubt she probably was innocent of the charges put against her. I wasn't a fly on the wall for any of it, but if that many people all over Europe believed in her innocence, both friend and foe, I'm probably going to have to lean more towards innocent. No human being is perfect, Royal or Commoner, so HRH Queen Anne Boleyn probably had faults here and there. But I'm also not going to believe every negative thing spoken about her, both then and now, based on speculation. Claire, thank you for making Tudor history so interesting. Thank you for putting the cookies on the lower shelf so everyone can get it more easily. And thank you for the tireless research, compiling all sources, and making it relatable. My father got me into Tudor history, so this is so interesting to me.

[@victoriakmartin]

Seriously, that letter is probably the nicest thing Chapuys ever wrote about Anne.

[@fionarhiannonpitbullextrao5786]

Wouldn't shock me. It really does lend HRH Queen Anne Boleyn credibility if even her enemies and those who generally dislike her even defended her.

[@anneboleynfiles]

I think he had come to hate her. I think he felt let down by her after all he'd done to have her and I think he felt the marriage was wrong.

[@fionarhiannonpitbullextrao5786]

I think it was probably hatred, Yes Claire. I also would like to offer the sentiment of betrayal in nearly equal measure. HRH Queen Anne swore every way she could think of she would give HRH King Henry VIII a legitimate son, a legal prince and heir to England's throne, security for another generation. He was very angry at her for what he probably saw as her betraying him by giving him another "useless"girl child (not knowing the incomparable, incredible monarch that his daughter HRH Queen Elizabeth I would ultimately become), and it was the ultimate betrayal in his eyes. Of course he was angry. Of course he was enraged. And he probably didn't want to have to go through another lengthy divorce proceeding after all that happened the first time around, so it was expedited via lies, partial truths that were twisted to support the outright lies, false testimony, and boom - expedited bachelorhood for Henry so he could legally remarry without the long wait.

[@normastone1044]

@@anneboleynfiles Too bad they didn't know what we do...the mother has no control over the gender of child, it's all up to the dad's swimmers!

[@gabrielleabraham8207]

I love your material!! Would you be willing to do a video speaking of your opinion on the accuracy of the movie Elizabeth and the golden age? I absolutely love those movies and how the depict Queen Elizabeth I. Thank you!!

[@victoriakmartin]

Was there a particular reason for choosing beheading by sword rather than by axe?

[@christopherbrown2706]

Ideally less likely to go wrong and be butchered (pardon the pun)

[@pamelaoliver8442]

It just occured to me that she was an anointed Queen and laying on a block wouldnt be very dignified. Idk. Maybe he was taunting her, she was said to have had the manners of a French woman. Others have speculated it was an act of mercy.

[@victoriakmartin]

I was wondering if it was just because of her being crowned/anointed, unlike Catherine Howard. I have never heard of any of English execution by this method.

[@melvawages7143]

@@pamelaoliver8442 Katharine Howard ws executed by ax so it had nothing to do with her being queen. Plus Calais was British territory not French at that time. Mary I lost it to France later.

[@christopherheppingstall3608]

Nobility died by the sword. An axe for commoners. Everything structured in tudor life from top to bottom

[@zero_bs_tolerance8646]

Hey! Your old intro music! I like it. Does it have a title? Thank you!

[@anneboleynfiles]

I'm not sure, I let Tim handle all of that!

[@zero_bs_tolerance8646]

@@anneboleynfiles Techy Tim.

[@lila6117]

Thank you so much for all your hard work. Just finished watching “Wolf Hall” and I wonder what you think of the portrayal of Anne Boleyn?

[@anneboleynfiles]

I hated it!

[@suecrowhurst4393]

It was horrific in those days, he was a tyrant , but love listening

[@stephanietorres5679]

This speaker is very good on this historical note.

[@catherinejohnson2235]

Love your daily!!!! insight. You are marvelous (and so are all the furry children). It is a treat to learn in such a cosy kitchen, as though we were best friends.

[@anneboleynfiles]

Thank you! That's definitely what I aim for with my videos and my books too.

[@shesaknitter]

It would seem that if the ladies present at her execution were visibly distressed, they might not have been the same women (spies!) who were in the Tower with her, although it could just have been human empathy at Anne's, or anyone's sad end...so it is possible that they were the same women. Another of one of history's mysteries! Also, you mentioned that Chapuys was one of the chroniclers of the event. Was he just including information, known to everyone at the time, about what had happened in his report to the Emperor, or was he actually present, too? Fascinating, as are all of your videos, Claire. My dad's birthday is May 19, too! I usually have a little moviethon for myself on that day every year and watch several movies about the British royals, usually including at least a couple about the Plantagenets, but I always include "Anne of the Thousand Days," a favorite...except at the end where they say that Henry VIII died of syphilis...ugh, and "A Man For All Seasons." Thank you, as always! Oh, and I really appreciate your information about where Anne was executed. I was at the Tower many years ago, and I'm sure I was in the wrong spot as I thought about her and her date with destiny! I'll remember what you said when I get back there!

[@reythejediladyviajakku6078]

I think that she knew that even if she spoke out about her innocence, no one would believe her. She’d be like “I’m innocent “ and they’d be like “yeah right “

[@draganamitrovic4250]

Annes last speech is very ironic ,she was fighter to the end !

[@barbarameyers2007]

One thing - her speech may have been heartfelt - but it was also true that anyone who critized the King on the scaffold could be facing an execution by hanging and being drawn and quartered. A good deterrent from telling what you really thought.

[@charlottebruce979]

@Karen Reed You've completely not listened to Clare Ridgways talks or read books on Anne, this is a very old fashioned view of Anne's life. You forget women didn't have a lot of agency in this time, she certainly had no say or power as women didnt in tudor England, she caught Henry's eye and went along with his calculated ways. She used her limited feminine power to gain some control but she certainly didnt scheme her way into Henry's life. And to say she deserved to die a horrific death is unbelievably cruel.

[@neelhalli]

Is Catherine of Aragon, wife of Henry Viii, was also his elder Brother's wife? When Henry Viii Father died, did his elder brother died also?

[@victoriakmartin]

Arthur, Prince of Wales (Catherine's first husband) died in 1502, seven years before Henry VII's death.

[@anneboleynfiles]

Arthur died in April 1502 which was why Henry became king when their father died in 1509.

[@roolenoir3183]

I read someplace that Henry VII tried to marry Catherine of Aragon after Arthur died. He didn’t want to unass her dowery?

[@pamelamorgan7354]

Thank you! For future segment: Would Anne have turned to religion to comfort her in the last days? I just can’t imagine what was going through her mind! Three years earlier she was about to have a coronation. How could anyone trust Henry VIII after this? He was loyal to no one but himself!

[@anneboleynfiles]

Yes, she prayed, she had her almoner and Cranmer visit her and prepare her, and she would have had her New Testament and her Book of Hours.

[@Shane-Flanagan]

Cranmer took her last confession. She spoke of her innocence. Anne would not have lied during confession for fear of going to hell

[@Shane-Flanagan]

It's laughable how Henry thought of ordering a French swordsman to do the deadly deed but didn't think to provide a coffin, something so logical. How ironic it is that those who hated and disparaged her in life saw her as innocent in death

[@chiaroscuroamore]

Thank you for answering more questions! It’s always sad to hear about Queen Anne’s execution but I do find it interesting too. I also find it interesting as well that many people of the time wrote of her innocence, pity Henry VIII didn’t read their words. Though his mind was made up and he wanted what he wanted and that was that. Thank you again for another enlightening video!

[@anneboleynfiles]

Thank you!

[@andrewkeir6918]

Great detail as always Claire. Are there any contemporary sources which confirm that her eyes and mouth continued to move after her beheading as the swordsman held her head aloft or is this just myth?

[@anneboleynfiles]

The main sources do not confirm that, but I think there is one. I don't have my notes to hand, I'm afraid, but I'm sure one has her eyes and mouth moving, but it's weird as her eyes were blindfolded.

[@andrewkeir6918]

@@anneboleynfiles thanks Claire. I'm not even sure if the headsman held up her head and said "thus perish all traitors" or whatever! Her ladies may have gathered up her remains rather too quickly for that to happen. Loving all the videos!

[@tremms83]

Hi Claire. I wondered is there a transcript of her Death Warrant online? Eric Ives said that the warrant stated that Henry was moved by pity to not use fire as her execution method. I wondered what else the Death Warrant may elaborate on or reveal. Thank you :)

[@anneboleynfiles]

It's not online, but I know that Roland Hui has a copy of it from the National Archives. He ordered it recently. Yes, it states that Henry was "moved by pity" to have Anne beheaded privately within the Tower confines. See Roland's articles - tudorfaces.blogspot.com/2020/08/to-be-burnt-or-beheaded-at-kings.html

[@bobbianndonohue6110]

Was Henry told when the execution was over . And where was he as it was being done?

[@isobelduncan]

A canon was fired to signal her death, he then went to visit Jane Seymour.

[@sweetlikechocolate437]

Hello Claire, I considering on doing a course in Tudor History because I have loved this era since I was a little girl. On completion, will this course help me get into university?

[@terriegamino1647]

Not that I'm vindictive, but it does my heart good that Thomas Cromwell suffered execution too (I keep getting him mixed up with Thomas More.)

[@Shane-Flanagan]

Yes you are right and also the fact that Anne was executed by a professional and died smoothly and swiftly with one clean blow while Cromwells executioner was drunk and nearly butchered Cromwell to death.

[@ladydamiana6841]

Question: I read years ago, in a historical book about Anne Boleyn (as opposed to a Plaidy-type novel) that Anne might have been pregnant when she was executed; this being based on the fact that she was not examined by matrons before her death, which was the procedure at the time so a pregnant woman could "plead her belly" and win a reprieve until she delivered. Presumably this would have been omitted at Henry's order; even though he wanted a son, he dared not let a child born to Anne live to threaten the succession, once she had been convicted of adultery and incest...especially if male. Of course, it would have just about killed him to have to forfeit the child, but he really had no choice. I can't recall the title or author of the book (might have been Antonia Fraser?), but do you know anything about whether or not Anne had undergone this examination?

[@grayace4556]

I read somewhere that Anne's pet wolfhound was also beheaded. If this is true, why would they do that?

[@anneboleynfiles]

I have never come across that story!

[@grayace4556]

@@anneboleynfiles This is the only other link I was able to find that referenced it. I'm thinking perhaps I read something about one of her other dogs that died. www.dogster.com/lifestyle/large-dog-breeds-irish-wolfhound-pictures-photos-dogs

[@normastone1044]

Anne had a small dog named Purkoy that died. Her servants didn't tell her he had died because the didn't want to upset her.

[@grayace4556]

@@normastone1044 I did read about a wolfhound, but I am sure the author might have been thinking of Purkoy and perhaps got their research mixed up somehow.

[@okpeace4687]

It's very sad Anne Boleyn was innocent her only mistake she married a monster a monster king

[@oledocfarmer]

Not quite innocent....she broke up a marriage.

[@okpeace4687]

@@oledocfarmer that marriage was pretty much already done because a his first wife didn't give him a son which is all henry wanted. That was a wife only value otherwise he wanted to be rid of them.

[@elanabethfariss117]

Peace plus, it is also worth mentioning that Henry chased her down for nearly 6 years, and HE forbid the union of AB and Henry Percy, whom Anne was in love with. I’m always hearing what a home wrecker she was, but that doesn’t seem to be the case.

[@isobelduncan]

@@oledocfarmer There’s no evidence that Anne ever set out to replace Catherine. Claire even makes a point of this in one of her videos.

[@oledocfarmer]

@@isobelduncan If he’s already married, then her engaging in anything beyond polite conversation was “not innocent.” I’m not judging her intentions....I’m judging her behavior.

[@dawnemile4974]

Henry VIII sure knew how to get his revenge for Anne holding out on him for years in the most cruel way. Accusing her of gross sexual misconduct when she was probably very strong in this area.

[@clare5one]

Is there a good history text on the profession of executioners? What became of Anne's executioner?

[@anneboleynfiles]

We don't know who he was, unfortunately, so we don't know what became of him. I would assume that he carried on with his profession.

[@clare5one]

@@anneboleynfiles I viewed a brief segment on "The Worst Jobs in History" with Tony Robinson. He briefly discussed the life of an executioner, with an expert of that profession. I was wondering if there were any texts describing who these men were, etc.? THANK YOU FOR YOUR REPLY.🌹

[@chaschk2]

Queens Catherine of Aragon was the proper Queen.

[@Dirtdevil1]

Claire, I have read some accounts where Anne's lips were saying her prayer when the executioner held up her head. Can you confirm this? I really appreciate your consideration. Love your channel and content!

[@elanahammer1076]

Any woman who has been so as the accused and not set free of guilt , must be understood in time. In my opinion there is little difference between the accused of in modern times and our beloved Anne Boleyn. ❤️✊🤔😷😉🇺🇸👍🌎☘️

[@steveatbuccscoin336]

In thought Anne had the title of Queen removed from her before her execution as you could not execute a Queen? Steve@buccscoin

[@anneboleynfiles]

Anne was still queen and there wasn't any law preventing a queen consort being executed.

[@dirkbollein4406]

It’s clear there is something stinky about timing if the swordsman had to be sought, ordered, transported and get on time on the scaffold. Could following be plausible?: Knowing half of gunman on the Tower were Flemish mercenaries. The executioner mostly had an cap not to be recognized. That would not be necessary being a stranger, would it? So if they ‘appointed’ an soldier of the Tower whose job is and known of at least to have done it on battlefield. After the job, with plenty of time to ‘promote’ him abroad, for example to Calais, and not from Calais, unless he once was long before born there. Second taught, England just as other armies have a tradition to execute their own who deserted or got by ‘shell shock’ on the battlefield, (the latter was not Recognized/accepted even after WWII). In WWI on the battlefields of Ypres officers stood behind their men and shot anyone who fled back or didn’t stormed ahead as ordered.

[@gill8779]

I think I read somewhere that the executioner was actually ordered way before Anne's actual trial, which means her fate was already decided.

[@anneboleynfiles]

Yes, Anne had no chance of justice as the executioner must have been ordered before her trial.

[@dirkbollein4406]

Thank you for making that clear

[@kathykahl1996]

No one could question the king. Even if he lied. And he did!!

[@tomfraterrigo1990]

Where was Elizabeth during Anne Execution

[@anneboleynfiles]

She was in her own household safely away from court.

[@tomfraterrigo1990]

Thank you I started reading about Anne Boleyn and I am inspired by her story and your videos help so much..

[@lelita65]

Hi Claire, have you find any evidence if the B necklace ever existed? Thanks!

[@anneboleynfiles]

Jewellery with initials was fashionable at the time and the portraits from Elizabeth I's reign depict her wearing it and that was still in living memory. So we can safely assume she did. Henry VIII's inventory has lots of initial jewellery pieces.

[@lelita65]

@@anneboleynfiles than you Claire! Saludos,

[@Shane-Flanagan]

@@anneboleynfiles Do you believe in the rumour that some of Anne's jewels now reside in one of Elizabeth II crowns. Did Henry really threaten Jane that she may face a similar fate as Anne if she meddled Did Anne's lips really move after she was beheaded

[@chasegordon9683]

I just love you! Blessings to you and your family!

[@jordanp4259]

Wonderful video, Anne Boleyn is one of my historical heroines, right besides Anne Frank. These videos have taught me so much about Anne and many more Tudor people. I actually just completed a piece of Natalie Dormer as Anne Boleyn from the Tudors. I posted it on my Instagram story @ctrl.jordan and I would love it if you all could see it.