Jane Seymour, the third wife of King Henry VIII, gave birth to a son, Edward, in 1537. Sadly, Jane died shortly after childbirth due to complications.
Edward VI, as he was known, became king at the age of nine. He was a frail child, and although he lived to be fifteen, he suffered from various health problems throughout his life.
Edward VI's Health Issues:
- Tuberculosis: Edward VI likely suffered from tuberculosis, a serious infectious disease that was common in the Tudor era.
- Other Illnesses: He also experienced other illnesses, including recurring bouts of coughing, fever, and weakness.
- Physical Frailty: Edward VI was known to be a small and delicate child, possibly due to poor health or genetics.
Edward VI's Reign:
Despite his health challenges, Edward VI became king and ruled for six years. He was a devout Protestant and played a significant role in the English Reformation.
Edward VI's reign was marked by political and religious turmoil, but his health issues also contributed to the instability of the time. Ultimately, his early death at the age of fifteen left England without a clear heir and paved the way for the rise of Mary I, the daughter of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon.