The War of the Roses:
* The two warring houses: The War of the Roses was a brutal civil war in England fought between the Houses of York and Lancaster, represented by the white rose and the red rose respectively. This mirrors the conflict between the Houses of Stark (Winterfell) and Lannister (Casterly Rock) in Game of Thrones.
* Power struggles and betrayals: The war was characterized by shifting alliances, assassinations, and betrayals, which are prominent themes in Game of Thrones.
* The fight for the throne: The War of the Roses was fought for the English throne, much like the Iron Throne in Game of Thrones.
The Tudors:
* King Henry VIII's reign: Henry VIII's ruthlessness and ambition, his multiple marriages, and his break with the Catholic Church are reminiscent of some of the rulers in Game of Thrones, like King Joffrey and Cersei Lannister.
* The rise of the Tudors: The Tudors' rise to power was marked by cunning, political maneuvering, and violence, mirroring the political machinations of the characters in Game of Thrones.
Other Historical Influences:
* Medieval European history: The feudal system, chivalry, and the role of religion in society are all reflected in Game of Thrones.
* The Crusades: The constant religious conflicts and clashes between different cultures in the Crusades find echoes in the struggle between the Seven Kingdoms and the "Others."
* The Roman Republic and Empire: The power struggles, political intrigue, and social unrest in Ancient Rome can be seen in the political landscape of Westeros.
Beyond Specific Events:
* The rise and fall of empires: Game of Thrones explores the cyclical nature of power and the inevitable decline of empires.
* Human nature: Martin's writing explores the darker aspects of human nature, such as ambition, greed, and lust for power.
While Game of Thrones doesn't directly recreate history, it draws inspiration from real-world conflicts and human struggles, offering a fictionalized exploration of themes that have resonated with readers and viewers throughout history.