How Henry VIII built England's first national coastal defense network

The English Heritage Podcast: Henry VIII's Super Forts · 33:16 · Video: English Heritage · Watch at the source

In short: After breaking from the Catholic Church, Henry VIII faced a crisis of vulnerability against France and Spain. His solution was a revolutionary architectural response: 'device forts.' This video explores how these rounded stone fortresses redefined coastal warfare.

The fortifications were designed as England's first national defense system to protect against potential invasions. Described as rising like 'medieval spaceships,' these device forts utilized cutting-edge cannon technology to create formidable barriers along the coast.

The podcast features experts from English Heritage exploring the specific mechanics of these structures and how they fundamentally changed the nature of military strategy during Henry's reign.

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