Elizabeth Hardwick, better known as 'Bess of Hardwick', was one of the most intriguing figures in Tudor history. Born to a gentleman of Hardwick in Derbyshire, through a series of marriages, Bess rose through the ranks of Elizabethan society, her fourth and final marriage elevating her to Countess of Shrewsbury, and becoming the second wealthiest woman in England, only behind Queen Elizabeth I.

On This Day (13 Feb) in 1608, Elizabeth Talbot, Countess of Shrewsbury, Elizabethan courtier and builder, known as 'Bess of Hardwick', died.

On 08 February 1587, Mary, Queen of Scots was executed at Fotheringhay Castle, after being found guilty of high treason.

On This Day (14 Oct) in 1586, the trial of Mary, Queen of Scots began at Fotheringhay Castle, Northamptonshire.

Elizabeth Hardwick (better known to history as 'Bess of Hardwick') was born in the 1520s (estimated dates range from 1520-21 to 1527).