History
Henry VIII: The King Who Changed England
An overview of King Henry VIII, the Tudor monarch known for his six marriages and for initiating the English Reformation.
What is it?
Henry VIII was the King of England from 1509 to 1547. The second monarch of the Tudor dynasty, he is one of the most famous figures in English history. Initially a charismatic and accomplished ruler, he became more tyrannical in his later years. Henry VIII is best known for his six marriages, which were a result of his desperate quest for a male heir to secure the Tudor line. His wives were Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Catherine Howard, and Catherine Parr.
Why is it trending?
Henry VIII's dramatic personal life and radical political actions ensure his enduring relevance. His break with the papacy is a pivotal moment in history. When the Pope refused to annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon, Henry initiated the English Reformation, separating the Church of England from Roman Catholic authority and declaring himself its supreme head. This bold move, combined with the dissolution of the monasteries which transferred immense wealth to the Crown, makes his reign a constant subject of study and popular fascination. He also significantly expanded the Royal Navy, laying the foundation for England's future naval power.
How does it affect people?
Henry VIII's reign fundamentally transformed English society. The Reformation triggered centuries of religious conflict and permanently altered the nation's spiritual identity. By seizing church lands, he caused a massive redistribution of wealth that reshaped the social and economic order. His actions expanded the power of the monarchy and Parliament, legally uniting England and Wales and making him the first English monarch to be King of Ireland. His legacy continues through the established Church of England and his children, three of whom—Edward VI, Mary I, and Elizabeth I—would rule after him.