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What Happened to Mary Tudor?

Published in Mary Tudor's Death 2 mins read

Mary Tudor, often known as "Bloody Mary," died in 1558 from stomach cancer, ending her reign as the Queen of England and Ireland.

End of a Reign

Mary Tudor's rule, marked by her strong efforts to restore Catholicism in England, was ultimately cut short. As the rightful heir of the House of Tudor, her reign concluded abruptly due to illness.

Cause and Date of Death

Mary's life and reign came to an end in 1558 due to stomach cancer. Her passing marked a significant turning point in English history, paving the way for her half-sister to ascend the throne.

Key Details of Mary I's Demise

  • Cause of Death: Stomach cancer
  • Year of Death: 1558
  • Age at Death: 42 years old
  • Successor: Her half-sister, Elizabeth I
Aspect Detail
Commonly Known As "Bloody Mary"
Position Queen of England and Ireland
Cause of Death Stomach cancer
Year of Death 1558
Immediate Impact End of her attempts at reconciliation with Rome
Long-term Impact Paved the way for the Protestant reign of Elizabeth I

Legacy and Succession

Upon her death, Mary Tudor was acutely aware that her half-sister, Elizabeth, would entirely overturn her dedicated attempts at reconciliation with Rome. This awareness highlighted the deep religious divisions that characterized her era and the future of the English monarchy. Mary's death ensured the succession of Elizabeth I, leading to the re-establishment of Protestantism as the state religion.

For more information on Mary Tudor, you can visit the Fitzwilliam Museum's section on Mary Tudor.