Henry’s Infatuation
- By the late 1520s, Henry VIII had become infatuated with Anne, but she resisted becoming his mistress, insisting on marriage.
- This refusal set Anne apart from other women at court and made Henry determined to wed her.
The King’s Marriage Crisis
- Henry’s marriage to Catherine of Aragon was childless except for one surviving daughter, Mary.
- Seeking a male heir, Henry began the process of annulling his marriage to Catherine to marry Anne.
The Role of Thomas Cromwell
- Henry’s chief minister, Thomas Cromwell, was instrumental in navigating the political and religious maneuvers necessary for the annulment and eventual break from Rome.
The Break with Rome and the English Reformation
The Pope’s Refusal
- Pope Clement VII refused to annul Henry’s marriage, largely due to pressure from Catherine’s nephew, Emperor Charles V.
- This refusal pushed Henry to reject papal authority.
Establishment of the Church of England
- Between 1532 and 1534, Henry, with the support of Parliament and advisors, severed ties with the Roman Catholic Church.
- The Act of Supremacy (1534) declared Henry the Supreme Head of the Church of England.
Anne’s Role
- Anne supported the Reformation and was a patron of reformist scholars and clergy.
- Her influence helped shape religious changes in England. shutdown123