Henry VIII

Henry VIII was king of England from 1509 to 1547. He was the second Tudor king, after his father, Henry VII. His long reign is known for major changes in government, religion, and royal power. Henry VIII is also widely remembered for having six wives, which shaped many political events of his time.

Henry was born in 1491. As a young prince, he studied languages, music, and sports, because these skills were expected of a noble boy. He became king at age 17, after the death of his father. Early in his rule, Henry continued some policies of Henry VII but soon made choices that greatly changed England.

One major event in Henry's life was his marriage to Catherine of Aragon, the widow of his older brother Arthur. After many years, Henry asked the pope, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, to end this marriage, which is called an annulment. When the pope refused, Henry separated England from the pope’s authority. This led to the creation of the Church of England, with the king as its head. This change is often called the English Reformation.

Henry VIII married six times. His wives were Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves, Catherine Howard, and Catherine Parr. His marriages were linked to politics and the need for a male heir. Henry had three surviving children: Mary, Elizabeth, and Edward. Each child later ruled England.

Henry also changed the way the kingdom was governed. He closed many monasteries, which were religious communities, and took their lands and wealth. This action gave the Crown more money and power. Henry also strengthened the navy by building new ships and docks. This helped England become an important sea power in later years.

Henry VIII died in 1547. His son, Edward VI, became king after him. Henry left a kingdom with stronger royal power, a new national church, and lasting political and religious changes. These changes shaped England for many years after his death.