Founder of the Tudor dynasty, Henry VII was a crucial figure in English history. In this acclaimed study of the king's life and reign, the distinguished historian S. B. Chrimes explores the circumstances surrounding Henry's acquisition of the throne, examines the personnel and machinery of government, and surveys the king's social, political, and economic policies, law enforcement, and foreign strategy. This edition of the book includes a new critical introduction and bibliographical updating by George Bernard.

Originally published in 1936, this book contains a detailed investigation of the ideas and theories behind the forms of fifteenth-century English government, reaching conclusions regarding the 'spirit' of the constitution. The text is divided into four large chapters: 'The Estate of King', 'The Nature of Parliament', 'Statutory Law and Judicial Discretion' and 'The Theory of the State'. Extensive notes, appendices and a bibliography are also provided. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in fifteenth-century history, political history and the development of the English constitution.

Fortescue's dialogue in praise of the laws of England, written for the instruction of Henry VI's son, is one of the essential sources for English legal history, and has always been renowned among lawyers for its lucidity of style and for the unique account it gives of the workings of contemporary English law. In addition, Fortescue's practical experience, and the leisure that he has in exile to read and reflect upon political questions, made him both an original politician thinker and a statesman who could suggest practical reforms. This 1949 edition provides a Latin text derived directly from the earliest MSS, a translation avoiding assumptions from later history, and critical annotation often based on original research.