Henry's Character And Aims Flashcards
When did Henry VIII ascend to the throne?
April 1509 - two months before his 18th birthday
Was he prepared for his ascension?
Since his brother’s death 7 years prior, he had been well educated (in the humanist school of thought) for his role as king.
What happened right at the start of the new reign?
Henry VII’s death was concealed for two day and Fox, Lovell and Weston established themselves in power - immediately arranged for the arrests of Empson and Dudley.
Henry VIII’s way of ruling
Lacked strong work ethic, little interest in the daily business of government, could be decisive at times, relied heavily on others (initially his father’s councillors, Warham, Fox and Lovell –> later Chief Ministers Wolsey and Cromwell)
Henry’s character traits
Ruthlessness (e.g execution of Empson and Dudley), insecurity and tyranny (e.g. willingness to execute many people for treason), impulsiveness (e.g. marriages to Anne of Cleves and Katherine Howard and execution of Cromwell - all of which he later regretted)
Henry’s aims
- Dismantle unpopular aspects of his father’s legacy (e.g executing Empson and Dudley, abolishing Council Learned in Law on 1510)
- Dynastic stability (e.g marriage to Katherine of Aragon)
- Manage nobility (e.g nobles sons became close personal companions of the king in sport, leisure and war, but had limited political influence - Wolsey dominated)
- Military glory (e.g pursuit of war in France)
Henry VII’s legacy to his son
Full Crown coffer - around £300,000
Conciliar form of government
Peace - nobility had been limited and the Tudor dynasty had been secured
Which key councillors did Henry reappoint?
Sir Thomas Lovell (Chancellor of the Exchequer)
Bishop Fox (Lord Privy Seal)
Archbishop Warham (Lord Chancellor)
How many bonds and recognisances did Henry cancel at the start of his reign?
175
Who did Henry execute early on in his reign?
Edmund de la Pole, Earl of Suffolk
