Mary Saaler

Anne of Cleves was married to Henry VIII in 1540. Thomas Cromwell was instrumental in placing Anne of Cleves in line for the marriage to Henry. A plain woman, one of the two daughters of the Duke of Cleves. For political reasons Cromwell had a portrait commissioned. Alas, it was an inaccurate depiction of the very unfashionable, dowdy woman.

She did not meet Henry's standards, and withing six months she was "unqueened." Remaining in England for the remainder of her life, she outlived Henry. She gained wealth, many properties, and some jewels.

Most importantly, she was not killed, thus, she kept her life and her head.

She was smarter than Henry deemed her. She was a good mother to Henry's three children.

Ruthless and unforgiving, Henry never forgot the mistake Cromwell made in placing Anne of Cleves in line for marriage. Alas, Thomas Cromwell was killed as a result of his hubris and error in judgment.… (meer)