Did Henry VIII Sleep with Juana la Loca, Catherine of Aragon’s Sister?

The idea of Henry VIII, the notorious first king of England, slept with any of the women related to his wives, including Juana, Catherine of Aragon’s sister, is a popular topic for historians and enthusiasts alike. However, the evidence for such an event is sparse and largely speculative.

Henry VIII’s Three Wives

Henry VIII was married to three women: Catherine of Aragon, Catherine Howard, and Catherine Parr. Catherine of Aragon had several sisters, but there is no evidence to suggest that they ever came to England or interacted with Henry VIII.

Catherine Howard’s Sisters

Catherine Howard, Henry’s second wife, had two sisters who were both younger than her. Given this, it is unlikely that Henry would have known them or had any opportunity to have a relationship with them. Catherine Parr’s younger sister, on the other hand, served as a lady in waiting at the court and served all of Henry’s wives. While she may have been the most likely to have an affair with Henry, no records confirm this.

Henry VIII’s Personal Life

Historically, Henry VIII had a reputation for not sleeping with queens, even if he was the king of another country and the spouses were his guests. This was considered very bad manners and was to be avoided at all costs.

Henry VII’s Marriage Plans

So, did Henry VIII sleep with Juana la Loca, Catherine of Aragon’s sister? Not according to the evidence. Juana, the sister of Catherine of Aragon, was married to Philip the Handsome, a man described as lusty and handsome. Juana was also the mother of four children. It is unlikely that she would have considered Henry VIII as a lover. Additionally, Juana and Philip were deeply devoted to each other. Henry VII, the father of Henry VIII, had planned for a marriage between Prince Henry and Philip’s eldest daughter, but this plan was never realized.

Political and Personal Considerations

Henry VII was concerned about the political implications of such a relationship. He saw it as very bad manners and was focused on maintaining diplomacy and negotiation over backroom discussions and marriages. Philip, for his part, was determined to keep Juana in line and prevent any influence from Catherine Parr’s younger sister.

Historical Context

Henry VIII himself was a great admirer of Philip the Handsome, similar to a sports fan admiring an idol. Henry VII had also considered a marriage between Prince Henry and Philip’s eldest daughter, as a way to secure an alliance with Castile. However, it was ultimately decided that the marriage would not take place.

Henry VII’s Motivations

Henry VII’s motivation in proposing the marriage to Ferdinand of Aragon was to secure an alliance and potentially gain control over Castile. However, Ferdinand was reluctant to give up his custody of his daughter, the Queen of Castile, to the King of England. The negotiations were complicated by Ferdinand’s non-payment of Catherine of Aragon’s dowry.

Conclusion

In summary, there is no evidence to support the claim that Henry VIII slept with Juana la Loca, Catherine of Aragon’s sister. The political and personal constraints of the time, as well as the deep bond between Juana and her husband, make such an affair highly unlikely. Despite the speculation and interest in Henry VIII’s personal life, the truth remains shrouded in mystery.