How successful was Henry VII in strengthening royal authority in the years 1487 to 1509?

Royal authority was successfully strengthened under Henry VII's rule between 1487 and 1509. Several factors contributed to this consolidation of power including, but not limited to, the centralisation of government. It should be noted, however, that continued threats from rebellion threatened to undo this advancement. Henry’s decision to reform the Chamber in the 1490’s ensured that there was a centre to patronage and communication between the king, his ministers, and the gentry at court. This was achieved by increasing the power of Justices of the Peace by, in 1495, giving them the power to replace juries they believed had been bribed, thus reducing the influence of the nobility in court and simultaneously increasing the Kings authority. An example of this (please excuse) In addition, the establishment of the Council of Learned in Law 1495 ensured that Henry’s interests as feudal overlord were guarded. Under Sir Reginald Bray this rapidly became a more general institution enforcing bonds and recognisances. Members of the gentry who made up both groups were far more likely to agree with Henry’s policies and seek to fulfil his desires in an attempt to win his patronage and move up the social ladder as their own power depended on Henry’s benefaction. Additionally, this method reduced the power of the nobility thus strengthening royal authority. One drawback, however, was the alienation of the nobility which served to make them more of an external threat to Henry’s reign. The continued threat of rebellion, however, could be viewed as evidence which suggests weaknesses in royal authority. The Warbeck Rebellion 1497, Cornish Rebellion 1497 and Second Cornish Uprising 1497 all demonstrate continued challenges to the Tudor dynasty. Yet a lack of rebellion between 1497 and 1509, couple with the fact these challenges were dealt with, imply royal authority did strengthen during this period. In conclusion, evidence suggests that royal authority did strengthen between 1487 to 1509 due to a reform of government and symbolised by Henry’s ability to defeat challenges to the throne.