Margaret Pole, born into the illustrious Plantagenet family, became the Countess of Salisbury through her marriage to Sir Richard Pole. Her life took a significant turn during the reign of her cousin, King Henry VIII, who increasingly viewed her as a political threat due to her noble lineage and associations with the old guard. The tension between the Tudor dynasty and the remnants of the Plantagenet claimants to the English throne intensified after the execution of her son, Henry Pole, in 1539. This act of retribution further solidified Margaret's vulnerable position within the realm of Tudor politics.

In 1540, Margaret was arrested and charged with treason, accused of conspiring against Henry VIII. Though the details of the accusations were somewhat vague, they included claims of plotting with foreign powers and promoting rebellion. The trial, more theatrical than judicial, was heavily influenced by political maneuvering and the king's desire to eliminate any individuals who could potentially usurp his power. Margaret's trial was marked by little evidence and much speculation about her loyalty, which raised questions regarding the justice of her fate.

On May 7, 1541, Margaret Pole was executed at the Tower of London. Described as brave and steadfast, she faced her death with dignity, reportedly professing her loyalty to the king shortly before her beheading. Her death not only extinguished a significant link to the royal bloodline of England but also further entrenched the atmosphere of fear and suspicion that characterized the Tudor court, where loyalty was often equated with survival. Margaret's execution underscored the ruthless elimination of any perceived threats during Henry VIII's tumultuous reign and reshaped the political landscape of England in the face of increasing centralization of power under the monarchy.