History Extra podcast Who stole the Tudor crown?
Nov 14, 2025
Historian Tracy Borman, author of The Stolen Crown, unveils shocking new evidence about the Tudor-Stuart succession. She reveals hidden edits that fabricated Elizabeth I's announcement of James VI as her successor, suggesting a far less secure transition than previously thought. Tracy discusses James's legitimacy issues and the complex political landscape with rivals like Mary, Queen of Scots. She also examines Elizabeth's careful management of contenders, highlighting the turbulent backdrop to this pivotal moment in history.
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Camden's Text Was Rewritten
- British Library imaging revealed William Camden's Annals were altered to insert favourable lines for James I.
- The original shows Elizabeth I died without naming a successor, contradicting 400 years of accepted history.
Jacobean Historical PR
- James commissioned a revised Annals long after he was king to legitimize his claim amid declining popularity.
- Camden published in Latin and late, so the immediate 1615/1625 impact on English public opinion was limited.
Why Elizabeth Refused To Name An Heir
- Elizabeth refused to name an heir to avoid the instability she saw under her sister Mary.
- Her strategy relied on her unusually long life to avert civil war after 44 years on the throne.
