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Backdating Henry's reign
When Henry VII called his first parliament he used it as an opportunity to legitimise his reign.
His claim to the throne was precarious and he wanted to portray Richard III as a usurper.
Author Thomas Penn examines the parliamentary roll from this session where Henry VII has backdated his reign to the day before the Battle of Bosworth - effectively accusing everyone who fought for Richard III, the crowned king, of treason.
