1506 - Philip and Juana in England

In 1506, Philip of Burgundy and Juana of Castile, Katherine’s sister, were travelling by sea when a storm forced them towards the coast of England and they took refuge with Henry VII. While there, Henry does not pass up on an opportunity to form some shrewd, political negotiations. 

Through the treaty of Windsor, and the Intercursus Malus, Henry VII ensures that trade relations between Burgundy and England are restored. Secondly,  he negotiate the return to England of Edmund de la Pole - someone who could assert a claim to the throne if supported. Talks also begin about a potential marriage alliance between Henry VII and Philip’s sister, Margaret. In return, Henry VII agrees to officially recognise Philip and Juana as the rulers of Castile, strengthening their position. 

However, when Philip and Juana returned to Spain, Philip died shortly after - in the September of that year - which had a deep and lasting effect on Juana’s mental health. 

This sudden loss left Henry VII somewhat isolated in terms of European negotiations and alliances. 

What began as a fortuitous storm for Henry, resulted in little but disappointment. Though the impression made by his young daughter, Mary, would have long reaching repercussions.