French Invasion Threat
- In 1545, France launched a major invasion fleet aimed at invading southern England.
- Henry VIII assembled a fleet to counter the threat, with the Mary Rose as a central asset.
The Battle Unfolds
- On July 19, 1545, the English fleet engaged the French near the Solent.
- The Mary Rose was part of the vanguard, tasked with aggressive maneuvers against French vessels.
Eyewitness Accounts and Historical Records
Contemporary Descriptions
- Reports describe the Mary Rose sailing into battle amid heavy gunfire.
- Witnesses noted that she heeled sharply to one side and suddenly sank.
- Over 400 men were aboard, with only a handful surviving.
Official Inquiries
- Tudor records suggest the sinking was a sudden disaster with no clear explanation.
- Some blamed human error, others suggested structural failure. shutdown123