Henry VIII up to 1529 Flashcards
(75 cards)
What’s some evidence of Henry’s desire to break away from the past?
Two days after his coronation, Henry arrested his father’s two most unpopular ministers, Richard Empson and Edmund Dudley. They were charged with high treason and were executed in 1510. Henry also announced that Catherine of Aragon was to become his wife, after Henry VII had refused to return her to Spain or marry her to Henry as he had promised.
What is some evidence that Henry did not seek an immediate break from the past?
He maintained many of his father’s policies and methods of government and retained some of his servants. For example, Henry VIII continued to rely on customs revenues and parliamentary taxation, though his extravagant spending led to the introduction of new taxes, such as the Amicable Grant (1525).
What evidence is there to show that the continuity from Henry VII to Henry VII was not long lasting?
Henry VIII renewed his father’s peace treaty of Etaples in 1510 before later launching his own wars in 1512–14. Moreover, later he used Parliament extensively, especially for religious reforms such as the acts of supremacy of 1534
What is the evidence of Henry’s desire for military glory?
He launched an expedition to France in 1512 with the aim of taking Aquitaine, an area in the south-west of France that England had ruled over in the Middle Ages (capture of Tournai). The Battle of the Spurs in 1513 was turned into a great propaganda victory, bolstered by the capture of some French nobles.
How did Henry VIII reflect the ideals of a Renaissance prince?
He built a personal monarchy centered on Court ceremony and Renaissance art and architecture. He supported scholars like Erasmus and employed humanists like Thomas More.
Who was commissioned by Wolsey for Renaissance-inspired works?
Benedetto da Rovezzano, for his tomb and Cardinal’s College altar.
What message did Henry VIII aim to send with his Renaissance court?
That he was a magnificent and virtuous ruler, admired both domestically and abroad.
What was Wolsey’s education?
Wolsey attended Ipswich School and Magdalen College School before studying theology at Magdalen College, Oxford. He gained a degree at 15.
How did Wolsey benefit from Henry VII’s measures to curb the power of the nobility?
The king was willing to favour those from more humble backgrounds. Henry VII appointed Wolsey royal chaplain.
What early role helped Thomas Wolsey begin his rise to power, and who supported him?
Wolsey served as secretary to Richard Foxe, who recognised his talent, diligence, and willingness to handle tedious tasks.
What diplomatic mission did Wolsey undertake in 1508?
He was sent to Scotland to discuss with King James IV rumours about the renewal of the Auld Alliance.
How did the accession of Henry VIII in 1509 impact Wolsey’s career?
It coincided with Wolsey’s rise, as Henry’s different policies and disinterest in administration created opportunities for Wolsey to gain influence.
What position did Henry VIII appoint Wolsey to in 1509, and why was it important?
Almoner; it gave Wolsey a seat on the Privy Council and greater access to the king.
How did Wolsey demonstrate political adaptability in regard to war with France?
Though originally antiwar, Wolsey aligned with Henry VIII’s enthusiasm for war and gave persuasive speeches in support of it. (French campaign of 1513)
How did Wolsey consolidate power against other courtiers?
He orchestrated the downfall of rivals like the Duke of Buckingham and prosecuted others such as William Compton and Anne Stafford.
What was Wolsey’s first major ecclesiastical appointment, and when did it happen?
Canon of Windsor in 1511.
What were Wolsey’s major church positions between 1514 and 1529?
1514: Bishop of Lincoln and Archbishop of York
1515: Cardinal (by Pope Leo X)
1518: Abbot of St Albans and Bishop of Bath
1523: Bishop of Durham
1529: Bishop of Winchester
How much income did Wolsey reportedly earn annually from his combined church positions?
Over £35,000 per year.
What was the significance of the 1514 Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye for Henry VIII and Wolsey?
The treaty secured English control of Tournai and arranged the marriage of Henry’s sister Mary to King Louis XII of France, boosting England’s international prestige. It showcased Wolsey’s skill in diplomacy and made him indispensable to Henry VIII by delivering military success, foreign recognition, and a splendid court life.
What is an example of another councillor who failed to rise to power, unlike Wolsey?
Thomas Howard, Duke of Norfolk, also had opportunities but did not rise as rapidly.
What military successes did Henry VIII achieve in 1513?
The Battle of the Spurs secured Thérouanne and Tournai from France, and at the Battle of Flodden, English forces killed James IV of Scotland, securing the northern border.
Why were Henry VIII’s military gains in 1513 ultimately limited?
Tournai was strategically unimportant and sold back to France in 1518; England couldn’t afford to maintain territorial control, and the 1515 French victory at Marignano sidelined England in European affairs.
How did England become diplomatically isolated after early military campaigns?
Following Ferdinand’s death, France, Spain, and the Holy Roman Empire allied in 1515–16, leaving England excluded and forcing Henry to seek peace with France.
What was the Treaty of London (1518), and why was it significant?
A universal peace treaty orchestrated by Wolsey, where 20+ countries signed separate agreements with England, placing Henry at the diplomatic center of Europe.