Thomas Cromwell: A Very Modern Tudor
His life made gripping reading for millions through Hilary Mantel’s bestselling novel Wolf Hall. But who was the real Thomas Cromwell? Historian Tracy Borman presents this two-part documentary which focuses on King Henry VIII’s chief minister. From the son of a lowly blacksmith to one of the most powerful figures in Tudor history, his meteoric rise and spectacular fall are revealed.
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Thomas Cromwell: A Very Modern Tudor on BBC Select
Episode 1: Rise to Power
Born into lowly circumstances, Cromwell clawed his way to a position of ultimate power.
Thomas Cromwell was a supreme political mover and shaker. Born in lowly circumstances, he maneuvered his way through Tudor England until he was the trusted advisor to King Henry VIII. But, as historian Tracy Borman reveals, he made many enemies on his route to the top, including Henry’s wife Anne Boleyn. As he solidified his power, the seeds for his ultimate execution were being sown.
Episode 2: Fall From Grace
A simple mistake led to Thomas Cromwell’s spectacular downfall and brutal execution.
Thomas Cromwell was Henry VIII’s right hand man and the power behind the throne. But his fall from grace was almost as spectacular as his rise to prominence. As historian Tracy Borman reveals, his attempts to keep his unpredictable employer happy eventually backfired. A disastrous royal marriage eventually led to Cromwell’s brutal execution. But Henry would regret losing his beloved favorite.