As a historian with a focus on the Tudor period, I am often asked about the various mysteries and controversies that surround the lives of England's monarchs. One such mystery is the death of Queen Mary I, often referred to as "Bloody Mary" due to her aggressive attempts to re-establish Catholicism in England, which led to the persecution and execution of many Protestants. It's important to clarify that the question "Who killed Bloody Mary?" is based on a misconception, as she was not murdered but rather died from natural causes. However, let's delve into the historical context and the circumstances of her death to provide a comprehensive answer.

Step 1: English Response

Queen Mary I, born on February 18, 1516, was the daughter of King Henry VIII and his first wife, Catherine of Aragon. Her reign as Queen of England and Ireland began in July 1553 and lasted until her death on November 17, 1558. Mary's rule was marked by her zealous efforts to reverse the English Reformation initiated by her father, which led to significant religious and political strife. Her aggressive approach to restoring Catholicism and punishing Protestant dissenters earned her the moniker "Bloody Mary."

The question of who killed Bloody Mary is not one of murder but rather of illness. The last years of Mary's life were plagued by poor health. It is widely accepted by historians that she died from a combination of factors, including a probable uterine or ovarian cancer, which was exacerbated by a phantom pregnancy, and possibly by influenza. The phantom pregnancy was a psychological condition where Mary believed she was carrying a child, despite there being no medical evidence to support this. This condition was likely brought on by her deep desire to produce an heir and secure the Catholic future of England.

Mary's health had been in decline for some time before her death. She had suffered from ovarian cysts and possibly endometriosis, conditions that would have caused her considerable pain and discomfort. The stress of ruling a divided kingdom, coupled with the emotional toll of her failed marriage to Philip II of Spain and her inability to bear a child, likely contributed to her declining health.

In the final stages of her illness, Mary was reported to have been in great pain and discomfort. She was described as having a bloated abdomen, which is consistent with the symptoms of ovarian cancer. Her physician at the time, Dr. John Boxall, is known to have treated her for her ailments, but the medical knowledge of the time was limited, and there was little that could be done to alleviate her suffering.

It is also worth noting that the political situation in England at the time was fraught with tension. Mary's aggressive religious policies had made her many enemies, and there were undoubtedly those who wished for her demise. However, there is no credible evidence to suggest that her death was anything other than the result of natural causes.

In conclusion, Queen Mary I, known as "Bloody Mary," died from a combination of health issues, most notably a likely cancerous tumor and the psychological impact of a phantom pregnancy. Her death was not a result of murder or assassination but rather the tragic culmination of a life filled with personal and political turmoil.

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Mary I (18 February 1516 -C 17 November 1558) was the Queen of England and Ireland from July 1553 until her death. She is best known for her aggressive attempt to reverse the English Reformation, which had begun during the reign of her father, Henry VIII.read more >>