Young Henry, Tudor Society, Government and Wolsey's Rise Flashcards
When did Henry VIII’s father become king?
Henry VII became the first Tudor king in 1485.
What was Henry VII’s reputation by the end of his reign?
Henry VIII’s father, Henry VII, became known for being greedy. Henry VIII was determined to be different and become known as a king of great wealth and generosity.
Why was Henry VII an unlikely first Tudor king?
Because he was a very distant relative of the royal family and lived abroad in exile from the age of 14 to 27.
How did Henry VII become the first Tudor king?
He was chosen by rebels against the king at that time, Richard III, so in 1485 he invaded and killed Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth Field.
Was Henry VII safe as king from 1485?
No! He had to fight off several rebellions AND two of his sons died young - so Henry, who became Henry VIII was his last hope of continuing the family name.
How do primary sources depict the young Henry VIII?
He is described as a Renaissance Prince: skilled at a range of activities from sports (jousting, hunting) to music (singing, the lute) to writing poetry to foreign languages. And he had a fine calf to his leg as well!
Are any primary sources critical of the young Henry VIII?
Yes, the more ‘reliable’ ones, such as ambassadors whose purpose was to send reliable reports back to their masters abroad, describe him as arrogant and vain.
What were the 6 expectations of a king?
- Defend the country, increase England’s power and lead the army;2. Show off England’s wealth and power through his own appearance;3. Ensure peace and prosperity - prevent rebellions and keep the law;4. Respect and unite nobility to help rule the country;5. Defend the Church and unite the people in one religion;6. Have male children to continue the Tudor family dynasty.
How did Henry use his appearance to his advantage?
He was kingly and also ruthless.Kingly: He was a symbol of wealth and power. He engaged in kingly pursuits, such as jousting and hunting. This also helped unite him with his nobles.Ruthless: He executed unpopular councillors Empson and Dudley from his father’s reign and had them executed as a show of strength and to win approval from the people and his court.
What were Henry VIII’s three main aims as king in 1509?
- To win power and glory by defeating France (he had read stories in his youth about famous English kings who had done this, such as Henry V)2. To prevent rebellions (he remembered how troubled his own father was by this - he needed sons for this too!)3. Have FUN!
What was Henry VIII’s personal style of monarchy?
The same as most before him: he had a divine right to rule and made all important decisions.
Did anyone else have more power than Henry VIII in England?
No. The Pope was supposed to have authority over the Church, but Henry expected the Pope to agree to any requests Henry made.
What social class was below the important landowners know as the nobility?
The gentry - lesser landowners. These were often professionals such as lawyers. They were often appointed as Justices of the Peace (JPs) to keep the law.
Who was below the gentry?
Wealthy merchants.
Who were below wealthy merchants?
Yeomen - farmers who owned land.
