When we last left Margaret of Austria, she was grieving the loss of her husband, Juan the prince of Spain. At only age 20, Maggie is now back on the market as a widow. As the daughter of the Holy Roman Empire, she can't stay single long and before you know it is a wife... again.

As ruler of the Low Countries, Margaret was a formidable negotiator and diplomat, and her actions helped to shape the course of European politics for decades. She successfully maintained the peace between the Habsburgs and the French, and was instrumental in the peace negotiations between England and France in 1518. A moment in history called The Ladies Peace (because who run the world? Girls.)

Margaret's story is one of ups, downs, heartbreaks, joys, power and like so much money. She's really rich y'all. Margaret has gone down in history as one of the most influential people of the 16th century, and for really good cause.

Sources:

• Tudor Times
• https://www.monstrousregimentofwomen.com/2015/01/margaret-of-austria-formidable.html
• Freelance history writer

Queens podcast is part of Airwave Media podcast network. Please contact advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast.Want more Queens? Head to our Patreon, check out our merch store and follow us on Instagram!

Our awesome new intro music is thanks to @1touchproduction !

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices