Anne of Bohemia (1366- 1394)
Anne of Bohemia, the daughter of the Emperor Charles IV and Elizabeth of Pomerania, became the Queen Consort of England in 1382 as the first wife of King Richard II, King of England (r.1377 - 1399). Her piety and gentle nature won her popularity. She is credited popularising the use of the side-saddle amongst women.
In addition, Anne is also credited with introducing the writings of Wycliffe into Bohemia through Jan Hus.
Her many extravagances aggravated the poor relations that King Richard had with parliament - however, it is more likely that it was Richard's own extravagances and his unwise choice of friends that ultimately led to his downfall. When the Lords Appellant attacked his ministers and imposed limitations upons his parliament, Richard was outraged to the point of violence. After having endured a minority dominated by the nobility who had no wish to give up the power and influence that they held, Richard simply wanted to rule his way and by himself (see later King Charles I of England).
She died childless of the plague aged 27yo and was greatly mourned. Richard's behaviour became more erratic following her death - one may assume she was a more calming influence upon what one may consider to be a highly strung young man.
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Article added: 2006-03-30 @ 1:10 am | Last Modified: 2006-06-17 @ 12:37 am
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