Henry VIII after 1529

Question 1

What was the most important reason for Henry VIII’s break with Rome?

Answer 1

The desire for a divorce from Catherine of Aragon. Henry’s reluctance to break with Rome is shown by the years spent trying to persuade the Pope (from 1527–1533), only severing ties when Anne Boleyn was pregnant.

Question 2

What legal change marked the formal break from Rome?

Answer 2

The 1534 Act of Supremacy, which declared Henry VIII the “Supreme Head” of the Church of England.

Question 3

Why is Anne Boleyn’s pregnancy in 1533 significant in the break with Rome?

Answer 3

It forced Henry to act decisively. Legal changes began just after her pregnancy: the Act in Restraint of Appeals (Feb 1533) prevented appeals to Rome and justified Henry’s authority within the church.

Question 4

What does the Act in Restraint of Appeals (1533) declare?

Answer 4

That “this realm of England is an empire,” governed by a single supreme authority—the king. This act ended legal appeals to the Pope and justified Henry’s control over Church matters.

Question 5

What early attempt to limit Papal influence occurred before 1533, and why is it significant?

Answer 5

The Act in Restraint of Annates (1532) blocked most payments to Rome, allowing only 5% of the money normally remitted to Rome, signaling pressure—but was reversible. It shows Henry initially aimed to pressure, not sever, ties with the Pope.

Question 6

What legal and religious changes occurred after the break in 1533?

Answer 6

A5: Acts between 1534–1536 abolished papal authority:

Papal payments ended
Archbishop of Canterbury gained powers of dispensation
Pope’s role in appointments ceased
Religious authority transferred to the Crown
Act of Supremacy (1534) declared Henry “Supreme Head of the Church”

Question 7

What is the evidence for pluralism (and thus anti-clericalism) within the church?

Answer 7

Thomas Magnus who was Archdeacon of East Riding of Yorkshire and canon at Windsor and Lincoln, as well as Master of St. Leonard’s Hospital, York; Master of College of St. Sepulchre and Sibthorpe College, vicar of Kendal and rector of Bedale, Sessay and Kirby. In the parliament of 1529 MPs attacked what they claimed were widespread abuses in the Church.

Question 8

What examples show increasing political hostility to the clergy before 1533?

Answer 8

Praemunire (1530): clergy accused of putting Papal law above royal authority
1532 Parliamentary petitions: urged Henry to stop clerical legal abuses. The Supplication against the Ordinaries was a petition passed by the House of Commons in 1532. It was the result of grievances against Church of England prelates and the clergy, partivularly the amount of power given to the Church, excessive fees collected by it, as well as corruption (such as secular offices held by clergymen).
These actions showed growing elite support for challenging Church power.

Question 9

Why was Henry’s religious policy not truly Protestant after the break?

Answer 9

Henry maintained Catholic doctrines like transubstantiation. The Six Articles (1539) reaffirmed traditional practices: communion in one kind, compulsory clerical celibacy, vows of chastity and votive masses were a legitimate form.

Question 10

How did Henry gain financially from the break with Rome?

Answer 10

Dissolution of the Monasteries (1536–1541): seized Church land and wealth, raising ~£1.3 million (≈£500 million today)
Redirected Church taxes to the Crown (Act in Absolute Restraint of Annates - the annates were reserved to the Crown, and the English crown now took all revenue charged for the appointment of bishops; First Fruits and Tenths Act 1534 transferred the taxes on ecclesiastical income from the pope to the Crown)
Reduced annual £100,000 (≈£40 million today) previously sent to Rome

Question 11

Why is financial gain seen as a consequence, not a cause, of the break?

Answer 11

The major financial benefits came after 1533. The Valor Ecclesiasticus (1535) revealed Church wealth and led to the monastery dissolutions in 1536. Henry’s initial focus was on securing his annulment, not revenue.

Question 12

How did the break with Rome increase Henry’s political power?

Answer 12

Gained control over church appointments
Centralised legal and religious authority under the monarchy
Weakened Papal influence, strengthening royal supremacy in all state matters.
Monastic land, making up about one-third of England’s land, was sold off to nobility, strengthening Henry’s political control.

Question 13

What religious reforms were introduced in the 1536 Act of Ten Articles?

Answer 13

It rejected four of the seven Catholic sacraments, keeping only baptism, Eucharist, and penance, reducing core Catholic doctrines—marking a shift towards Protestant belief.

Question 14

What was the significance of the 1536 Royal Injunctions?

Answer 14

They attacked pilgrimages, discouraged the veneration of saints and relics, and promoted religious instruction, showing a move away from traditional Catholic practices.

Question 15

What did the 1537 Bishops’ Book reflect about religious change?

Answer 15

It downplayed the role of priests, Mass, and purgatory—central Catholic beliefs—suggesting a growing reformist influence despite lacking clarity on doctrine.

Question 16

Why was the publication of Matthew’s Bible (1537) significant?

Answer 16

It was a Protestant-leaning English translation of the Bible, endorsed by Henry, pushing reformist scripture into public use

Question 17

How did the 1538 Royal Injunctions further Protestant reform?

Answer 17

Ordered every parish to have an English Bible within 2 years, banned pilgrimages, and required the removal of relics, undermining Catholic traditions.

Question 18

What was the significance of the Great Bible (1539)?

Answer 18

It was the first authorised English Bible, distributed to churches nationwide—central to the Protestant emphasis on scripture in the vernacular.

Question 19

What did the Dissolution of the Monasteries (1536–1539) represent?

Answer 19

It was a major break with Catholic monasticism—first smaller monasteries (1536), then greater ones (1539)—removing a key pillar of Catholic life and authority.

Question 20

What 1538 event contradicted Protestant reform?

Answer 20

The execution of John Lambert for denying transubstantiation—a core Catholic doctrine—showed Henry’s continued support for traditional beliefs.

Question 21

What was the impact of the Act of Six Articles (1539)?

Answer 21

It reaffirmed transubstantiation, enforced celibacy for clergy, and reaffirmed that communion in both kinds is not necessary—clearly reinforcing Catholic orthodoxy.

Question 22

How can the religious change between 1536 and 1539 be characterised?

Answer 22

as movement towards a reformed religion, particularly due to Cromwell’s influence

Question 23

How did Henry’s marriage to Catherine Howard reflect religious change?

Answer 23

Catherine was the niece of Duke of Norfolk, a Catholic—her marriage marked a temporary Catholic resurgence at court (28th July 1540).

Question 24

What did the Act for the Advancement of True Religion (1543) do?

Answer 24

It restricted English Bible reading to the upper classes (clerics, noblemen, the gentry and richer merchants), rolling back reformist efforts to make scripture widely accessible.

Question 25

What was the King’s Book (1543) and its religious stance?

Answer 25

Defended transubstantiation and Catholic rites, yet also supported preaching and criticised images, reflecting mixed theological signals

Question 26

Why was 1540–1543 a period of religious confusion?

Answer 26

Though Henry defended Catholic doctrines, he also protected Cranmer, his reformist archbishop, and allowed some Protestant ideas to persist—showing indecision.

Question 27

What was the most significant reformist act of 1544?

Answer 27

Introduction of an English Litany (form of prayer consistent of petitions), replacing the Latin version—though optional, it marked a symbolic move towards Protestant worship.

Question 28

What was the Chantries Act (1545) and its potential impact?

Answer 28

It planned to dissolve chantries, attacking prayers for the dead and purgatory. Though not enforced until Edward VI’s reign, it was a major Protestant policy in intent.

Question 29

What event in 1546 shows Henry's continued enforcement of Catholic beliefs?

Answer 29

Anne Askew was burned for denying transubstantiation, showing Henry still upheld key Catholic doctrine, even as reformist influence grew.

Question 30

How did appointments to the Regency Council (1546) reflect a reformist direction?

Answer 30

Henry appointed a Protestant majority, including Edward’s uncle John Seymour, suggesting a posthumous shift toward Protestantism.

Question 31

What role did John Denny and John Seymour play in Henry's final religious legacy?

Answer 31

Denny controlled the dry stamp (Henry's signature) and Seymour held the key to his will, ensuring that reformers dominated the Regency Council after Henry’s death.

Question 32

What does the appointment of John Cheke as Edward’s tutor suggest?

Answer 32

Cheke was a Protestant humanist, and his role in shaping the prince's education implies Henry’s tacit support for a Protestant future.

Question 33

How can the period of 1543 to 1547 be defined when looking at Henry's religious policy?

Answer 33

Shift of focus away from religion, towards Henry’s foreign policy and ill health – perhaps an attempt to take a pragmatic approach against religious extremism in Europe. Very few legislative changes.

Question 34

What was the Lincolnshire Rising (1536) and why did it occur?

Answer 34

A rebellion of 10,000 people led by Nicholas Melton, protesting the dissolution of smaller monasteries. The rebels temporarily overwhelmed local forces and converged on Lincoln Cathedral before being defeated by the Duke of Suffolk.

Question 35

What was the Pilgrimage of Grace (1536) and how serious was it?

Answer 35

A major rebellion of 30,000 rebels, led by Robert Aske, who occupied Pontefract Castle and negotiated with Henry, presenting 24 articles demanding religious and political changes. Outnumbered royal forces 5:1.

Question 36

How did the government respond to the Pilgrimage of Grace?

Answer 36

Initially, Henry offered a general pardon, but he later refused the 24 articles, broke his promises, and ordered the execution of 178 rebels—showing it was a serious threat that he later crushed decisively.

Question 37

What was the long-term impact of the northern uprisings?

Answer 37

A4: Though threatening, they failed to change policy. Henry strengthened control by creating the Council of the North, making the region more secure long term

Question 38

Who was Elizabeth Barton, and what did she oppose?

Answer 38

A Catholic nun who claimed visions from the Virgin Mary and prophesied Henry’s death if he divorced Catherine—seen as a major threat due to her public following and religious influence.Thousands believed in her prophecies and both Archbishop William Warham and Bishop John Fisher attested to her pious life. Initially supported by Henry because her prophecies supported the existing order, warned against heresy and condemened rebellion.

Question 39

How did the Crown deal with Elizabeth Barton?

Answer 39

She was arrested in 1533, forced to recant, and then executed in 1534. Her swift suppression shows she was seen as a serious risk to public order and royal authority.

Question 40

Why was Thomas More considered a threat to Henry’s religious reforms?

Answer 40

More refused the Oath of Supremacy (1534), denying Henry’s status as Head of the Church. As a former Lord Chancellor, his stance carried great moral weight.

Question 41

What happened to Thomas More?

Answer 41

He was beheaded in 1535, and his head displayed on London Bridge, intended as a public warning. The extreme punishment suggests his opposition was viewed as highly dangerous.

Question 42

How did the Franciscans and Carthusians resist Henry’s reforms?

Answer 42

These religious orders criticised the divorce and rejection of papal authority, with houses in Greenwich, near London, giving their dissent strategic significance.

Question 43

How did Henry respond to opposition from religious orders?

Answer 43

Henry closed all seven Franciscan and Carthusian houses that opposed him—dismantling monastic resistance and eliminating religious dissenters by force.

Question 44

Who was John Fisher, and why was he executed?

Answer 44

Served as Bishop of Rochester from 1504 to 1535, defended papal supremacy and opposed the divorce, declaring he was ready to die on behalf of the indissolubility of marriage like St John the Baptist. Named Cardinal Priest by the Pope in 1535, but executed the same year. Later canonised as a saint.

Question 45

What does Fisher’s execution suggest about the seriousness of opposition?

Answer 45

His high status and strong Catholic views made him dangerous in Henry’s eyes, but his influence was short-lived, and his death was a warning to others.

Question 46

What role did Cromwell play in suppressing opposition to religious change?

Answer 46

Cromwell introduced harsh laws and enforcement, notably the Treason Act (1534), which made even verbal dissent punishable by death. He used propaganda, printing, and direct orders to JPs and clergy to enforce compliance.

Question 47

How did the 1534 Treason Act contribute to suppressing opposition?

Answer 47

Created a climate of fear—people could be executed for words alone. Approximately 300 people executed between 1533 and 1540. After the act, vocal opposition (e.g., like that of More or Barton) disappeared.

Question 48

What happened to key figures like More, Fisher, and the Carthusians?

Answer 48

All were executed for their refusal to accept royal supremacy. These high-profile deaths acted as deterrents.

Question 49

Why were the nobility reluctant to oppose the changes?

Answer 49

They feared a return to civil war like the Wars of the Roses. Figures like the Duke of Norfolk chose caution over rebellion. Also, many nobles were rewarded with monastic land, giving them a stake in the reforms.

Question 50

Why did many ordinary people not oppose the reforms?

Answer 50

The changes were often gradual and unclear, and Henry still appeared Catholic, especially in Eucharistic beliefs. Many saw no clear break from tradition, so felt no need to resist.

Question 51

Why didn’t opposition movements gain momentum?

Answer 51

Opposition was mostly individual and fragmented. There was no collective or coordinated movement to unite opposition efforts.

Question 52

What was the main religious cause of the Pilgrimage of Grace?

Answer 52

The dissolution of the monasteries — seen as a threat to tradition and religious life. Rebels aimed to stop the destruction of sacred institutions and reverse Henry’s Reformation.

Question 53

How did Robert Aske describe the cause of the rebellion?

Answer 53

He called the dissolution the "greatest cause" of the rising — highlighting religion as the primary motive.

Question 54

How did Robert Aske describe the cause of the rebellion?

Answer 54

He called the dissolution the "greatest cause" of the rising — highlighting religion as the primary motive.

Question 55

What evidence shows rebels acted in defence of the Church?

Answer 55

Rebels restored monks to monasteries and called for an end to Royal Supremacy and punishment of heretics — clear resistance to Reformation.

Question 56

What geographic evidence supports religious motivation?

Answer 56

Rebellion began and lasted longest in areas around monasteries: beginning in Yorkshire in October 1536 before spreading to other parts of Northern England, including Cumberland, Northumberland, Durham and north Lancashire.

Question 57

What were the religious demands of the rebels?

Answer 57

Their demands included the restoration of Papal authority, end to heresy, and reversal of monastic dissolution — reinforcing religious motives.

Question 58

How does the timing of the Pilgrimage of Grace supports the idea that religion was the primary cause?

Answer 58

Many ordinary peasants were worried that their church plate would be confiscated. There were also popular rumours at the time which hinted that baptisms might be taxed. The recently released Ten Articles and the new order of prayer issued by the government in 1535 had also made official doctrine more Protestant, which went against the Catholic beliefs of most northerners.

Question 59

What is the counter-argument to religion being the main cause?

Answer 59

The northern gentry had concerns over the new Statute of Uses. The poor harvest of 1535 had also led to high food prices, which likely contributed to discontent. The dissolution of the monasteries also affected the local poor, many of whom relied on them for food and shelter. Henry VIII was also in the habit of raising more funds for the crown through taxation, confiscation of lands, and depreciating the value of goods. A great deal of the taxation was levied against property and income, especially in the areas around Cumberland and Westmoreland where accounts of extortionate rents and gressums were becoming more and more common

Question 60

What is the evidence for political causes behind the Pilgrimage of Grace?

Answer 60

Many people in England disliked the way in which Henry VIII had cast off his wife, Catherine of Aragon. Although her successor, Anne Boleyn, had been unpopular as Catherine's replacement as a rumoured Protestant, her execution in 1536 on charges of adultery and treason had done much to undermine the monarchy's prestige and the King's personal reputation. Aristocrats objected to the rise of Thomas Cromwell, who was "base born".

Question 61

What was the main reason for the Dissolution of the Monasteries?

Answer 61

Financial gain — Henry VIII needed money to fund wars, defend the realm, and maintain power. Monasteries were extremely wealthy and provided a clear source of income and land

Question 62

How much wealth did monasteries control before the dissolution?

Answer 62

Over 25% of all cultivated land in England; monastic income was 10x greater than the Crown's (Valor Ecclesiasticus, 1535).

Question 63

How much money did the Dissolution generate for Henry?

Answer 63

It brought in around £1.3 million, much of which was spent on wars in Europe.

Question 64

How did Henry use church lands to secure support?

Answer 64

He granted monastic lands to nobles and elites to secure loyalty to the new Anglican Church.

Question 65

What religious justification was given for the Dissolution?

Answer 65

Alleged corruption and moral decay in monasteries, recorded in 1535 Cromwell's visitations which claimed that hundreds of monks were not celibate, either having a mistress or having affairs with young boys. Some nuns had even had children. One monastery in Yorkshire was even accused of working with pirates. Compiled in the Compendium Compertorum.

Question 66

What role did the 1536 Act of Dissolution play?

Answer 66

It dissolved smaller monasteries (incomes under £200/year), claiming they failed their religious duties.

Question 67

Why were monasteries seen as a threat to Royal Supremacy?

Answer 67

They were loyal to foreign institutions (the Papacy), undermining Henry’s 1534 Royal Supremacy.

Question 68

What religious arguments did Protestants make against monasteries?

Answer 68

Protestants believed monasteries were superstitious and unnecessary; they had already been abolished in Scandinavia and Germany.

Question 69

What is the counter-argument to religious decay as a genuine motive?

Answer 69

The visitations were exaggerated or fabricated to justify a premeditated financial policy. The Pilgrimage of Grace shows monasteries were still popular and supported, especially in the north

Question 70

How did the Dissolution support Henry politically?

Answer 70

It weakened opposition by removing institutions loyal to Rome and rewarded the political nation with land, securing loyalty to the Reformation.

Question 71

What role did the House of Lords play in opposition?

Answer 71

About 30 abbots and priors sat in the House of Lords — potentially influencing policy and resisting reforms

Question 72

How did monasteries contribute to community life politically and socially?

Answer 72

They offered charity, education, and medical care, supporting thousands. Their removal impacted the local community structure.

Question 73

What is the counter to politics being the main motive?

Answer 73

There was no organized political resistance from monasteries. Dissolution was staggered by wealth, not political threat, and most monks were not politically active.

Question 74

How did Cromwell’s religious beliefs contribute to his vulnerability?

Answer 74

Cromwell promoted Protestant reforms, including supporting Anabaptists and distributing English Bibles (e.g., the 1537 Matthew's Bible, 1539 Great Bible). These views made him a target for conservative factions, especially after the 1539 Act of Six Articles reinforced Catholic doctrine.

Question 75

What religious charges were used against Cromwell in 1540?

Answer 75

He was accused of heresy, supporting sacramentarianism, showing leniency toward accused heretics, and plotting to marry Princess Mary. Though these were likely fabricated, they aligned with Cromwell's reformist reputation.

Question 76

How did the use of religious charges reflect factional motives?

Answer 76

While Henry disliked doctrinal radicalism, he tolerated Cromwell for years. His continued favour until early 1540 suggests religion was not the true cause, but a convenient excuse for conservative enemies like Norfolk and Gardiner to remove him.

Question 77

What role did the Anne of Cleves marriage play in Cromwell’s downfall?

Answer 77

Cromwell arranged Henry’s January 1540 marriage to Anne to secure a Protestant alliance, relying on a flattering portrait by Hans Holbein and exaggerated descriptions. Henry found her physically repulsive and blamed Cromwell for misleading him.

Question 78

How did Cromwell's allies contribute to his downfall during the Anne of Cleves debacle?

Answer 78

Former allies like Wriothesley, FitzWilliam, and Bishop Bonner shifted blame to Cromwell for the King’s humiliation and Anne’s unconsummated marriage, showing how his political support was crumbling.

Question 79

Did the failed marriage alone seal Cromwell’s fate?

Answer 79

No. In April 1540, Cromwell was made Earl of Essex and Lord Great Chamberlain, showing Henry still trusted him. The marriage weakened his position, but it was exploited by factions rather than a direct cause.

Question 80

Who led the factional opposition to Cromwell?

Answer 80

The Catholic faction, led by Duke of Norfolk and Stephen Gardiner, used the King’s dissatisfaction to undermine Cromwell. They presented Catherine Howard, Norfolk’s niece, as a new bride for Henry.

Question 81

How did Catherine Howard’s rise help Cromwell’s enemies?

Answer 81

Catherine’s relationship with Henry after the Cleves failure gave Norfolk the opportunity to regain influence and make Cromwell’s removal essential to clear the way for marriage.

Question 82

What does the timing of Cromwell’s execution suggest about factional politics?

Answer 82

Cromwell was executed on 28 July 1540, the same day Henry married Catherine Howard—demonstrating carefully orchestrated factional planning.

Question 83

What symbolic acts were used to humiliate Cromwell during his arrest?

Answer 83

At a Council meeting on 10 June 1540, the Duke of Norfolk ripped off Cromwell’s Order of the Garter collar, saying, "A traitor must not wear it." His former ally FitzWilliam removed his ceremonial garter.

Question 84

How did Henry delay Cromwell’s execution and why?

Answer 84

Henry postponed it until the annulment of the Cleves marriage, in case Cromwell needed to testify. Cromwell supported the annulment in his final letter, ending with "Mercy, mercy, mercy

Question 85

When and how was Cromwell executed?

Answer 85

28 July 1540, Tower Hill. He was beheaded without trial and his titles and honours were stripped. He publicly affirmed traditional Catholic faith to protect his family. His head was displayed on London Bridge.

Question 86

How did public and royal opinion react to Cromwell’s death?

Answer 86

Some rejoiced, especially conservative clergy, while others mourned. Later, Henry regretted the execution, admitting Cromwell was condemned on "pretexts and false accusations" and calling him his "most faithful servant."

Question 87

How did Catherine Howard appeal to Henry VIII?

Answer 87

At 19, she was young and lively, giving Henry a sense of renewed youth after the disastrous Cleves marriage. She was introduced at Stephen Gardiner’s residence, making her ascent appear coordinated by the Catholic faction.

Question 88

Why was Cranmer vulnerable after Cromwell’s fall?

Answer 88

As Archbishop of Canterbury and a key figure in the Protestant reform, Cranmer was targeted by the Catholic faction and accused of heresy.

Question 89

How did Henry handle the plot against Cranmer?

Answer 89

Henry warned Cranmer and gave him a ring to present if arrested. When the ring was produced, Henry ordered Cranmer to investigate himself, humiliating his accusers. This showed Henry’s control and loyalty to trusted servants.

Question 90

Why was Catherine Parr nearly arrested in 1546?

Answer 90

Catherine Parr had reformist views, possibly veering into Lutheranism, which her enemies presented as heresy. Henry approved their plan to confront her.

Question 91

How did Catherine Parr avoid downfall?

Answer 91

Warned of the plot, she convinced Henry she would follow his beliefs. When her accusers returned to arrest her, Henry berated them. It suggests Henry was aware of factional plots and used them for his advantage, confirming that he was still capable of manipulating events and not fully controlled by either side.

Question 92

What caused Gardiner’s fall?

Answer 92

Gardiner, a leading Catholic, fell due to a minor dispute over land, though he had also been involved in plots against Catherine Parr. His fall in 1546 showed the reformist faction gaining power.

Question 93

What led to the downfall of the Howards?

Answer 93

Earl of Surrey, Norfolk’s son, claimed royal ancestry and used unauthorised royal arms, alarming Henry due to succession concerns. Surrey was executed, and Norfolk arrested, though spared by Henry’s death.

Question 94

What does the fall of Gardiner and the Howards indicate about Henry’s control?

Answer 94

Their removal suggests reformists had triumphed by 1547 and that Henry may have lost control in his final year due to illness and weakened judgement.

Question 95

What was Henry VIII’s main goal with Scotland in the 1540s?

Answer 95

To achieve dynastic security and union with Scotland through domination, breaking the Auld Alliance.

Question 96

What treaty showed initial success with Scotland, and how did it fail?

Answer 96

The Treaty of Greenwich (July 1543) aimed to unite Scotland and England through marriage, but it was rejected by the Scottish Parliament in December 1543.

Question 97

What battle reflected military success in Scotland?

Answer 97

The Battle of Solway Moss (November 1542) where English forces defeated the Scots and captured 1,200 prisoners, weakening Scottish forces.

Question 98

Why is Henry's Scottish policy still seen as largely ineffective?

Answer 98

Despite some military victories, Henry failed to secure a marriage alliance, and the Auld Alliance remained intact, undermining his core policy goal.

Question 99

What was Henry’s objective in his French policy during the 1540s?

Answer 99

To assert England's international status and restore military glory post-break with Rome.

Question 100

What were the consequences of Henry’s 1544 campaign in France?

Answer 100

It led to the collapse of the Anglo-Imperial alliance, the French invasion of England (1545), and diplomatic isolation for England.

Question 101

What success did Henry achieve in France?

Answer 101

He captured Boulogne in 1544 and successfully defended the Isle of Wight in 1545.

Question 102

Why is the capture of Boulogne considered a failure in hindsight?

Answer 102

It was expensive (£139,000 garrisoning) and strategically unsound; the campaign drained England’s treasury and didn’t bring lasting glory. Henry secured Boulogne for eight years. The city was then to be returned to France for 2 million crowns (£750,000). Henry needed the money; the 1544 campaign had cost £650,000, and England was once again facing bankruptcy.

Question 103

Was Henry’s foreign policy effective in the 1540s?

Answer 103

No—He failed to secure dynastic alliances, strained national finances, and left England isolated diplomatically.

Question 104

Did Henry maintain domestic control effectively?

Answer 104

Partially—He manipulated factional rivalries, but increasing instability and indecision reflected his waning control and ineffective leadership.

Question 105

How did Henry VIII maintain control through court patronage?

Answer 105

He used patronage to build a court with both formal institutions (e.g. Privy Council) and informal advisors. He often elevated and then executed nobles, including 2 wives, 20 peers, and 1 cardinal (John Fisher).

Question 106

What financial situation did Henry VIII inherit and how did it change?

Answer 106

He inherited £1,250,000 and a strong economy from Henry VII. His lavish court spending and wars depleted it by the mid-1520s.

Question 107

What were Henry’s key income sources?

Answer 107

Crown lands, customs duties (tonnage and poundage), and later monastic lands seized during the Reformation (worth £120,000/year)

Question 108

How did currency debasement affect England?

Answer 108

Cromwell debased the currency starting in 1540, halving its value by 1541 and causing severe inflation post-1544.

Question 109

How did Henry change England’s military structure?

Answer 109

Expanded the army slightly; modernised with artillery, war wagons, and better armour. Invested in fortifying coasts (Device Forts) using materials from dissolved monasteries.

Question 110

What were Henry VIII’s contributions to the Navy?

Answer 110

Grew the navy from 7 to 50 ships, introduced large cannons on ships, created dockyards, and established the “council for marine causes” (early Admiralty).

Question 111

What were the key periods in HVIII's religious policy?

Answer 111

1529–1535 1535–1539 1540–1547

Question 112

What key laws did Henry VIII pass between 1529–1535 that weakened Catholic authority?

Answer 112

The Act in Restraint of Appeals (1533) and the Act of Supremacy (1534) - declared Henry the “Only Supreme Head on Earth of the Church of England.”, rejecting papal authority.

Question 113

Who was appointed Vicegerent in Spirituals in 1535 and why is it significant?

Answer 113

Thomas Cromwell — his position allowed him to push Protestant reforms through royal authority

Question 114

What legislation punished denial of the Royal Supremacy as treason?

Answer 114

The Treasons Act (1534) — refusing the Oath of Supremacy could result in execution.

Question 115

What opposition arose against the 1534 Supremacy?

Answer 115

Figures like Sir Thomas More and Bishop John Fisher refused to accept the Supremacy and were executed in 1535.

Question 116

What religious changes occurred with the monasteries between 1536 and 1539?

Answer 116

The Dissolution of the Smaller Monasteries (1536) and the Greater Monasteries (1539) dismantled key Catholic institutions

Question 117

What doctrinal changes were introduced in the Act of Ten Articles (1536)?

Answer 117

It rejected 4 out of the 7 Catholic sacraments (only leaving baptism, Eucharist, penance), signalling a shift from Catholic doctrine.

Question 118

Why is the 1539 Great Bible significant?

Answer 118

It was the first authorised English Bible, marking a major Protestant development compared to earlier opposition to vernacular Bibles like Tyndale’s.

Question 119

What was the value of the land seized from the monasteries?

Answer 119

Around one-fifth of England's land, bringing in £90,000 a year to the Crown.

Question 120

What Catholic elements were still prominent in England by 1547?

Answer 120

Catholic sacraments were restored, transubstantiation upheld, and traditional practices like statues and masses for the dead remained.

Question 121

What does evidence from wills and demographics suggest about Protestantism's popularity?

Answer 121

Most people still followed Catholic customs in wills; only ~20% of Londoners were Protestant by 1547, with fewer in rural areas.

Question 122

Did Protestant figures still hold power in the period from 1540-47?

Answer 122

Yes — Thomas Cranmer remained Archbishop of Canterbury, and Protestant John Cheke was appointed tutor to Prince Edward.

Question 123

Was England a Protestant country by 1547?

Answer 123

No — while there were clear reforms and Protestant influences, Catholic practices remained dominant among the population and many policies reverted. Protestantism was largely confined to the elite and politically driven.