Henry was born in Pembroke, South Wales, to Edmund Tudor and Margaret Beaufort (a direct descendant of John of Gaunt, Edward III's son). Because of the political and sometimes violent problems between the Houses of Lancaster and York Henry, at the age of fourteen, was exiled to France where he remained until 1485.

During his time in France Henry made many allies with the French as many were sympathetic to his situation. The French always saw the English crown as a major threat as they had been traditional enemies of the English for centuries. The '100 Years War' was still a recent memory. When the time arrived for Henry to return to England to claim his title he did so with a large number of French troops in support. Unlike Richard, Henry had very little military or political experience and so the aid of the French was initially very important.

With the news of Richard's seizing the throne and the rumoured murder of the 'Princes in the Tower' an uprising was arranged by Henry Stafford, Duke of Buckingham, with Henry Tudor named as the rightful king. Although the rebellion failed these actions paved the way for Henry's return from exile with his French allies. In 1485 Henry landed at Milford Haven (in Wales) and assembled his troops before marching on to Leicester to confront Richard.

After his famous defeat of Richard III at Bosworth Henry was crowned Henry VII, King of England. Henry subsequently married Elizabeth of York therefore uniting the Houses of York and Lancaster.