Anne Boleyn was the second wife of King Henry VIII and mother of Queen Elizabeth I. She was born into a respected upper-class family in the early 1500's and had two siblings, a sister (Mary) and brother (George).

Anne was incredibly well educated and studied throughout Europe, particularly in France. When she returned to England, Anne became a lady in waiting for Queen Catherine of Aragon, who was Henry VIII's first wife.

The King became attracted to her personable skills and charm. Henry VIII divorced Catherine of Aragon and married Anne soon after. Anne then gave birth to her first and only child Elizabeth, the future Queen Elizabeth I.

Henry was disappointed that Anne did not deliver a male heir to the throne. He had Anne executed by beheading on charges of adultery and treason.

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Text: Stephanie Cowan