Henry VIII 1509-29: In what ways and how effectively was England governed during this period?

Summary

This video is part of a series on Henry VIII for A-level history, focusing on his reign's governance. The presenter covers the early years of Henry's rule, highlighting key figures like Wolsey, who rose from humble beginnings to become one of Henry’s most powerful advisors. The video discusses Wolsey's influence on government, his reforms in law and finance, and his failures, particularly around Henry's divorce from Catherine of Aragon. It ends by previewing a second video that will explore Cromwell and the later years of Henry's reign.

Takeaways

• 👑 Henry VIII's reign can be divided into two key periods: the early years before Wolsey and the later years with Cromwell.
• ⚔️ Henry's main goal was to become a warrior king, leading him to pursue military glory in France with Wolsey's assistance.
• 💼 Thomas Wolsey, a lowborn figure who rose to great power, became Henry's chief advisor and was given many high-ranking positions, including Archbishop of York and Cardinal.
• 🏛️ Wolsey's reforms strengthened the Star Chamber and helped the poor access justice, earning him a reputation as a champion for the underprivileged.
• 💰 Wolsey faced challenges with economic policies, such as the 1525 Amicable Grant, which led to widespread unrest and rebellion due to excessive taxation.
• 📉 Wolsey's failures in foreign policy and his inability to secure Henry's desired divorce from Catherine of Aragon led to his downfall.
• ⛪ Wolsey held significant power in the church, but his attempts to reform it were overshadowed by his political ambitions and scandals, including rumors of a mistress and children.
• ⚖️ Although Wolsey introduced several legal and financial reforms, many of his initiatives were not long-lasting due to his reliance on his personal power.
• 📉 The economic struggles of the time, such as bad harvests and inflation from debasement of coinage, contributed to Wolsey's declining influence.
• ⚔️ Wolsey's downfall was cemented by his failure to secure the annulment of Henry's marriage, as well as growing resentment from the nobility and the influence of Anne Boleyn.

Q & A

What are the two key periods of Henry VIII's reign discussed in the video?

The video covers the first 20 years of Henry VIII's reign before Wolsey's influence, and the period dominated by Wolsey. A second video will focus on Cromwell and the final years of Henry's reign.

What significant changes occurred at the beginning of Henry VIII's reign?

At the start of Henry VIII's reign, he reappointed key figures like the Lord Privy Seal and Lord Chancellor, executed hated figures like Edmund Dudley, abolished the Council under the law, and annulled 175 bonds and recognizances. Henry also executed Edmund de la Pole, a Yorkist claimant.

Who was Wolsey, and how did he rise to power?

Wolsey was the son of a butcher from Ipswich. He graduated from Oxford University at age 15 and later gained favor from Bishop Fox. Wolsey’s organizational skills in supporting Henry’s 1513 expedition to France propelled his rise. He became Archbishop of York, Lord Chancellor, Cardinal, and Papal Legate, gaining immense power in both church and state.

How did Wolsey's power and influence manifest in Henry's government?

Wolsey held significant power as the king’s chief advisor, dominating the Privy Council and essentially running most of Henry’s business. He was referred to as 'the other King' due to his influence, acting as if he made decisions alongside Henry, but sometimes implying he was acting on his own.

What reforms did Wolsey attempt during his time in power?

Wolsey introduced reforms in both the legal and financial sectors. He strengthened the Star Chamber to provide impartial justice, set up the Court of Requests for quick and affordable trials, and conducted an inquiry into the enclosure of land. He also attempted to reform taxation and reintroduce the 'Act of Resumption' to recover lost crown lands.

What were Wolsey's major failures in government?

Wolsey's notable failures included the failed 'Amicable Grant' tax of 1525, which led to unrest and rebellion, and his inability to secure Henry’s annulment from Catherine of Aragon. His failure to deliver on these key matters, especially the divorce, contributed to his downfall.

Why did Wolsey become unpopular, particularly with the nobility?

Wolsey was unpopular with the nobility because of his low birth and his concentration of power. He often clashed with the nobility and was resented for his influence over Henry. His treatment of nobles in legal cases and his reforms, which were perceived as favoring the poor, further alienated him from the aristocracy.

How did Wolsey’s handling of the enclosure issue reflect his concern for the poor?

Wolsey initiated a national inquiry into land enclosure in 1517 to investigate its impact on the poor. He took legal action against those who had enclosed land illegally, showcasing his desire to address the economic problems faced by ordinary people.

What role did Wolsey play in Henry VIII's foreign policy and wars?

Wolsey was responsible for organizing Henry’s military campaigns, particularly against France. He attempted to secure funding for these wars through various means, such as the Amicable Grant, but ultimately struggled to meet Henry’s expectations for foreign policy successes, which weakened his standing.

What led to Wolsey’s downfall and eventual death?

Wolsey’s failure to secure an annulment for Henry from Catherine of Aragon, coupled with his diminishing influence due to Anne Boleyn and her family’s rising power, led to his downfall. He was accused of praemunire, lost his positions, and was exiled to York. On his way back to face charges in London, he died before his trial.