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Tower of London.                 Source: A.B.G./Adobe Stock

Tower of London’s Most Daring Escapes You May Not Have Known (Video)

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The Tower of London, renowned for its grim history, has witnessed remarkable tales of escape, showcasing human resilience amidst oppression. John Gerrard, a Catholic priest, endured torture and imprisonment for his faith. Despite the agony, he refused to betray his beliefs. Gerrard's escape, orchestrated with fellow Catholics, stands as a testament to courage and determination in the face of persecution.

Ranulf Flambard, the Tower's inaugural State prisoner, exploited a drunken guard's revelry to stage his daring getaway. Scaling down a tower window, he fled to Normandy, eventually reconciling with King Henry I. Similarly, Roger Mortimer leveraged intoxicated guards to slip away, later returning to depose a king, shaping England's political landscape.

Alice Tankerville's escape narrative intertwines betrayal and piracy. Aided by a smitten jailer, she evaded execution, epitomizing the Tower's gender-neutral history. Lady Winifred's audacious plan to rescue her husband, William Maxwell, underscored love's power and ingenuity. Disguised among mourners, they deceived guards, securing freedom and sanctuary in Rome.

These escapes, fueled by courage and resourcefulness, enrich the Tower's legacy. They paint a vivid picture of defiance against oppression, highlighting humanity's enduring spirit in the face of adversity.

Top image: Tower of London.                 Source: A.B.G./Adobe Stock

By Robbie Mitchell

 
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Robbie

I’m a graduate of History and Literature from The University of Manchester in England and a total history geek. Since a young age, I’ve been obsessed with history. The weirder the better. I spend my days working as a freelance... Read More

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