King Henry VIII’s First Big Execution (Video)

Edmund de la Pole, often overlooked in history, was once a significant figure during the early Tudor period. A member of the House of York, he became a focal point after the decline of Yorkist power following the War of the Roses. The son of John de la Pole and Elizabeth of York, Edmund found himself second in line for the English throne after the disappearance of the Princes in the Tower, the death of Richard III’s son, and the execution of other Yorkist heirs.

Though initially loyal to the Tudors, Edmund’s relationship with Henry VII soured. He was demoted from Duke to Earl of Suffolk and, after killing a man in a quarrel, fled England to seek refuge in Burgundy. His exile marked the start of his descent, as foreign rulers, including Maximilian I of the Holy Roman Empire, eventually abandoned their support.

In 1506, Edmund was handed over to Henry VII, who reportedly promised to spare his life. However, Edmund was imprisoned in the Tower of London, and Henry VII instructed his son, Henry VIII, to execute him. Following Henry VII’s death, Edmund was beheaded in 1513, marking one of Henry VIII’s first high-profile executions. By this time, Edmund’s influence and support had significantly waned, and his execution passed with little reaction from the political world.

Top image: Left; Edmund de la Poole.  Right; Executioner block    Source: Left; Public Domain  Right; dimbar76/Adobe Stock

By Robbie Mitchell