Tudor biography

Historical era in England coinciding with the rule of the Tudor dynasty

In England and Wales, the Tudor period occurred between 1485 and 1603, including the Elizabethan era during the reign of Elizabeth I (1558–1603).

The Tudor period coincides with the dynasty of the House of Tudor in England, which began with the reign of Henry VII. Under the Tudor dynasty, art, architecture, trade, exploration, and commerce flourished.^[1] Historian John Guy (1988) argued that "England was economically healthier, more expensive, and more optimistic under the Tudors" than at any time since the Roman occupation.^[2]

Population and economy

Following the Black Death (1348) and the agricultural depression of the late 15th century, the population of England began to increase.

In 1520, it was around 2.3 million. By 1600 it had almost doubled to 4 million.^[3] The growing population stimulated economic growth, accelerated the commercialisation of agricult