Henry VII: First Tudor King

Henry VII (reigned 1485-1509) was the first Tudor king, winning the throne at the Battle of Bosworth Field. He deliberately strengthened central administration and reduced the power of the nobles to ensure peace and security. He was thrifty and built up the monarchy's financial reserves, leaving a stable kingdom to his son Henry VIII. He married Elizabeth of York, ending the Wars of the Roses and founding the Tudor dynasty.