Henry VII and his loyal councillors

Cardinal John Morton

A crucial moderating influence in Henry VII's affairs until his death in 1500.

Reginald Bray

A trusted servant of Margaret Beaufort and Thomas Stanley who managed estates and legal affairs.

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster

Position held by Reginald Bray responsible for delivering revenues from crown estates to Henry VII.

Morton’s Fork

A technique for extracting cash attributed to Richard Fox.

Giles Daubenery

A knight who rebelled against Richard III in 1483 and became Lord Chamberlain under Henry VII.

Poyning’s Law

Legislation created by Edward Poynings that subordinated the Irish Parliament to the King.

Chancellor of the Exchequer

Position held by Thomas Lovell, overseeing financial matters on behalf of Henry VII.

Edmund Dudley

A lawyer who specialized in prerogative rights and was part of the council learned.

Richard Empson

A councilor known for relentlessly increasing the king's revenue and one of Henry VII’s executors.

Tower Hill execution

The site where both Edmund Dudley and Richard Empson were beheaded for treason following Henry VII's death.

Council Learned in Law

A body established by Henry VII to maintain royal control over revenues and prevent reform.