Page:History of the Kings & Queens of England.pdf/20

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HENRY VII.

Born 1456. Began to Reign August 23, 1485. Died April 29, 1509. Reigned 23 Years.

Earl of Richmond, of the house of Lancaster, ascended the throne on the death of Richard at the battle of Bosworth-field. He married Elizabeth, daughter of Edward IV., and heiress of the York family. This united the interests of both families, rendering the throne free from further dispute. To gain the favour and affections of his subjects, Henry granted a general pardon to all who chose to accept it. After quelling some disturbances, Henry ruled with a steady hand till his death, which happened after a reign of twenty-three years. This reign was productive of many happy results, more particularly for the benefit of the people. None of Henry's predecessors ever did more for the extension of commerce, and for the support of agricultural industry than he did.

Eminent men in this reign :-Sebastian Cabot, a great navigator; Cardinal Morton, Lord Chancellor.