Rise Of Wolsey Flashcards
Wolsey’s positions
1502 - Deane of Canterbury
1514 - Bishop of Tournai, Archbishop of Canterbury
1515 - Cardinal, Lord Chancellor
1518 - Papal legate
Why did he rise to power?
Trusted under Henry VII, hardworking, managed the daily business of government that H wasn’t interested in, ruthless and tirelessly committed, organised successful expedition to France
Why was Wolsey so wealthy?
Largest disposable income in England (around £50,000 p.a.) - multiple bishoprics, held richest monastery in England (St Albans)
His court rivalled Henry’s (Come Ye to Court)
Was Wolsey an Alter Rex?
Yes - regarded by contemporaries as such (e.g. Venetian ambassador), Eltham Ordinances shows his monopoly on power, Hampton Court rivalled Henry’s court, Wolsey himself negotiated with foreign, biggest disposable income in England
No - foreign ambassadors (e.g. Venetian ambassador) may have exaggerated Wolsey’s importance to flatter him, Wol rarely put hi own agenda above the King’s, his position relied on the King’s goodwill (as seen by his dramatic fall)
Evidence that Wolsey served the crown
Brought justice to the legal system - spent a great deal of time on the Star Chamber, brought great aristocrats to justice (e.g. Earl of Northumberland sent to Fleet prison in 1516)
1519 - Venetian ambassador reported that Wolsey had ‘the reputation of being extremely just’
Ensured Star Chamber was accessible to the poor - made lawyers represent paupers without charge
Evidence that Wolsey served himself, not the crown
Spent so much time in the Star Chamber to get revenge - e.g. kept Sir Amyas Paulet waiting in daily attendance for more than 5 years
