Henry VIII - Foreign Policy - contextual considerations - RG4

Question 1

Was Henry’s foreign policy proactive or reactive?

Answer 1

The primary motivation of Henry’s foreign policy changed depending on the circumstances and therefore it was reactive in the sense that Henry couldn’t set or dictate European agenda. However, despite this Henry always had the desire to be proactive regarding the aims of his foreign policy however he was forced to be proactive due to England being a third rate power.

Question 2

What was the primary reason that Henry was unable to set or dictate the European agenda and therefore his foreign policy had to remain reactive despite his desire for it to be proactive?

Answer 2

England was a third rate power in military and financial terms.

Question 3

What was the constant and most significant foreign policy aim?

Answer 3

Military glory on foreign soil particularly in France.
France remained the glittering prize throughout Henry’s foreign policy despite him having limited success at a huge financial cost on multiple occasions at different points of his reign.

Question 4

Henry and Wolsey were forced to resort to what type of strategies to gain influence for England in European affairs?

Answer 4

Diplomatic strategies