Crown & Sceptre: a new history of the British Monarchy

Inspired by Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, join Tracy Borman as she explores the tumultuous history of the British monarchy.

With 1,000 years of royal history from 1066 to the present day, Domesday Book to Magna Carta, the Field of Cloth of Gold to Prince Harry’s wedding, discover the real story of this institution.

In this illustrated talk, Tracy will introduce some of her favourite monarchs and share a few of the secrets behind the crown’s remarkable survival.

Tracy Borman is an author, Tudor historian, broadcaster and joint Chief Curator at Historic Royal Palaces. She is the author of a number of highly acclaimed books, including Thomas Cromwell: The Untold Story of Henry VIII's Most Faithful Servant, Matilda: Wife of the Conqueror, First Queen of England, Elizabeth's Women: The Hidden Story of the Virgin Queen and Witches: A Tale of Sorcery, Scandal and Seduction.

This event is part of Royalty on Record: Celebrating Her Majesty The Queen's Platinum Jubilee. In 2022, Her Majesty The Queen will become the first British monarch to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee after 70 years on the throne. To mark this momentous occasion, The National Archives is digitising records from our collections about Her Majesty’s life, coronation and reign as well as revealing interesting and intriguing tales from royal history. Find out more here.

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