Who Deserves the Title of Englands Worst Monarch?
The BBC’s Today programme debated this topic last month with a panel of eminent historians before throwing the debate open to the public. Their nominees – Edward II, George IV and Mary, Queen of Scots – are certainly contenders for the dubious honour of Britain’s worst monarch. But they would not have been my choice. I’d vote for Henry VIII every time! Why? He inherited a country that was at peace, united and prosperous. He left it bankrupt, fighting itself and (almost) without an heir. And during his reign he destroyed medieval art and architecture on a monumental scale. For that act of vandalism alone he deserves the title of England’s Worst Monarch! Don’t believe me? Just try and picture England with its great abbeys and cathedrals still standing! Imagine industry and learning where now nothing but ruins remain. Like few monarchs before or since, Henry VIII changed the face of England. He gets my vote! Recipe of the Month – The Sublime “Eton Mess” With raspberries being at their abs
