Summary Henry VII - Foreign Policy: Summarised Notes with Essay Tips

Henry VII Foreign Policy


Brittany –
 Invaded by French in 1487, Henry provided military assistance
due to sense of obligation and fear of growing French Power.
 Treaty of Redon in 1489, Duchess Anne pays for English force,
and forms marriage alliance
 Anne later surrenders to Charles VIII, leaving English Army
stranded. Henry forced to launch a late campaign to put
pressure on France.
 Treaty of Etaples 1492, Charles agrees to withdraw support for
Perkin Walbeck and reimburses Henry for cost of army. This
treaty is a success for Henry, securing his national, dynastic and
financial interests.


Burgundy –
 Majority of English exports went through Antwerp and
Bruges, so maintenance of strong relations was necessary for
commercial interests.
 Relations were strained as it housed the leading Yorkist
claimant, Margaret of Burgundy. Relations were further
strained by support for Perkin Walbeck.
 Henry starts an embargo against Burgundy. Highlights a
conflict between financial and dynastic aims
 Intercursus Magnus brings the embargo to an end in 1496.
 Intercursus Malus in 1506 improves Henrys trading position.