Overview
This lecture introduces Henry VIII, king of England, focusing on his rise to power, marriages, religious changes, political actions, and legacy.
Early Life and Accession
- Henry VIII was born June 28, 1491, in Greenwich, England, as the second son of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York.
- Became heir after his brother Arthur's death in 1502 and ascended the throne in 1509 at age 18.
- Henry was well-educated, athletic, and enjoyed hunting and dancing, raising high expectations for his reign.
Marriages and Heirs
- Henry VIII married six times between 1509 and 1543 to secure a male heir and political alliances.
- His wives were: Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Catherine Howard, and Catherine Parr.
- He had three children who later ruled: Edward VI, Mary I, and Elizabeth I.
- Two wives, Anne Boleyn and Catherine Howard, were executed on charges of adultery and treason.
Domestic and Foreign Policy
- Initially, Henry followed his father’s advisers but later made decisive political and military moves, including wars with France and Scotland.
- Thomas Wolsey, Henry’s chief minister, rose to significant power but fell from favor when he failed to secure Henry’s desired annulment.
The Break with Rome and Religious Change
- Unable to secure a male heir with Catherine of Aragon, Henry sought an annulment which the Pope refused.
- Henry responded by breaking with the Roman Catholic Church and declaring himself head of the Church of England.
- This started the English Reformation, leading to major religious and political changes.
Decline and Legacy
- Financial strains and unpopular policies led to discontent at home.
- Henry's later years were marked by physical and mental decline.
- His reign began the English Renaissance and left an enduring religious and dynastic legacy.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Annulment — Official cancellation of a marriage as if it never happened.
- Church of England — The national church established by Henry VIII, separate from Roman Catholic authority.
- Reformation — A movement for religious reform, leading to the creation of Protestant churches.
- Heir — A person legally entitled to inherit a throne or title.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the timeline of Henry VIII’s marriages and their outcomes.
- Study the causes and consequences of the English Reformation.
- Prepare for quiz questions on key figures and events of Henry VIII’s reign.