Catherine of Aragon

Portrait of Catherine of Aragon by an unknown artist.

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This profile of Catherine of Aragon is part of
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Catherine of Aragon was also known as: Catalina de Aragón; also spelled Katherine of Aragon, Katharine of Aragon, and Catharine of Aragon

Catherine of Aragon was noted for: Refusing to give her husband, Henry VIII, a divorce, a stand that played an important role in Henry's break with the Catholic Church.

Occupations & Roles in Society:

Queen

Woman of Note

Places of Residence and Influence:

England

Spain

Important Dates:

Born:

Dec. 16

1485

Arrived in England:

Married Arthur:

Widowed:

Married Henry:

Crowned alongside Henry:

June 24

1509

Marriage to Henry nullified:

Died:

Quotation from Catherine of Aragon:

About Catherine of Aragon:

The youngest daughter of Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile, Catherine was well educated and trained for the role of queen. She served her husband, King Henry VIII, well as his consort, as well as his regent during his absence, but her failure to deliver a healthy son strained their once-happy marriage. Exceedingly devout, strong-willed and intelligent, her refusal to step aside when Henry wanted a divorce would trigger a series of events that ultimately resulted in the English Reformation. Henry got his divorce in spite of her wishes and she died in isolation.

For more about Catherine, visit The Tudor Dynasty: A History in Portraits.

More Catherine of Aragon Resources:

The Tudor Dynasty: A History in Portraits
Encyclopedia Article about Catherine of Aragon
Catherine of Aragon in Print
Catherine of Aragon on the Web

Medieval & Renaissance Monarchs of England
Medieval Britain
Medieval Spain
Women and Gender Issues

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