Page 1: Early Foreign Policy and Key Treaties

Henry VII's foreign policy initially centered around managing the Breton Crisis and establishing key diplomatic relationships. The crisis began when Anne of Beaujeu, France's regent, sought to absorb Brittany through marriage alliance.

Highlight: The Treaty of Redon (1489) marked Henry's commitment to defend Brittany, though he only delivered half of the promised 6,000 troops.

Relations with Scotland improved gradually through strategic diplomacy. The death of James III in 1488 initially created instability, but Henry successfully normalized relations through careful negotiation.

Example: The 1502 Treaty of Perpetual Peace formalized James IV's marriage to Margaret, though border raids continued.

The Treaty of Medina del Campo 1489 established crucial Spanish relations:

Definition: A comprehensive agreement arranging the marriage of Arthur and Catherine of Aragon, including a £40,000 dowry and mutual protection against pretenders.

The Intercursus Magnus trade agreement 1496 resolved tensions with Burgundy:

Vocabulary: Intercursus Magnus - A major trade agreement allowing English merchants free trade access in Burgundy while addressing the issue of pretenders to the English throne.