Henry VII of England - Legacy and Memory

Legacy and Memory

Historians have always compared Henry VII with his continental contemporaries, especially Louis XI of France and Ferdinand of Aragon. By 1600 historians emphasised Henry's wisdom in drawing lessons in statecraft from other monarchs. By 1900 the "New Monarchy" interpretation stressed the common factors that in each country led to the revival of monarchical power. This approach raised puzzling questions about similarities and differences in the development of national states. In the late 20th century a model of European state formation was prominent in which Henry less resembles Louis and Ferdinand.