History Extra podcast
Catherine of Braganza: the Merrie Monarch's forgotten queen
Jul 21, 2024
Elinor Evans discusses her new biography on Catherine of Braganza, the forgotten queen consort of Charles II. They explore her political role in Portuguese independence, power struggles in the court, fertility challenges, feminist advocacy, and her diplomatic and cultural influence on future leaders.
41:21
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Quick takeaways
- Catherine of Braganza secured crucial Anglo-Portuguese alliances and influenced cultural exchanges.
- Despite personal struggles, Catherine wielded political power and shaped diplomatic outcomes in challenging times.
Deep dives
Catherine of Braganza's Overlooked Legacy
Catherine of Braganza, though often overshadowed by mistresses in the court of Charles II, wielded immense power as a queen. Hailing from a time of immense political turmoil in Portugal, she pursued alliances and ultimately secured the Anglo-Portuguese alliance signified by the Methuen Treaty. Her influence extended to popularizing port wine and introducing tea to England, contributing significantly to cultural and diplomatic ties between the countries.
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