Not Just the Tudors Mary Rose & the Battle of the Solent
Jul 10, 2025
Dominic Fontana, a seasoned geographer from the University of Portsmouth, joins the discussion to unravel the historical complexities of the Battle of the Solent. He explores the maritime tragedy of the Mary Rose, shedding light on the ship’s sinking amid a fierce French invasion. With 40 years of involvement in maritime archaeology, Dominic delves into the reasons for the sinking and the subsequent strategic shifts that altered military fortunes. Listeners will gain deep insights into Tudor naval tactics and the pivotal moments that shaped England's history.
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Henry's Invasion Provokes France
- Henry VIII's 1544 invasion of France upset King Francois I and triggered France's 1545 invasion attempt of England.
- Henry's large army captured Boulogne, heightening tensions leading to the Battle of the Solent.
French Fleet's Scale and Reach
- The French assembled a massive invasion fleet of about 225 ships and 30,000 troops, including Mediterranean galleys from the Pope and Italy.
- This was a complex, expensive, and carefully organized endeavor showing serious intent to invade England.
Navigational Challenges in Solent
- Navigating the Solent is very challenging due to strong tidal currents, large tidal range, and narrow defenses.
- French plans to land troops faced serious logistical obstacles and did not account for these difficulties well.