Henry VIII and his ministers 1509-1540

Henry VIII

King of England from 1509 to 1547, known for his six marriages and his role in the separation of the Church of England from the Roman Catholic Church.

War of the Roses

A series of civil wars fought in England for control of the throne between the houses of Lancaster and York from 1455 to 1487.

The Great Chain of Being

A hierarchical structure of all matter and life, believed in the Tudor society, with God at the top.

Divine Right

The doctrine that kings derive their authority from God and are not accountable to their subjects.

Privy Chamber

A part of the Royal Household, consisting of a small group of the king’s closest friends, who influenced the King on matters of policy.

Royal Council

A body of advisors selected by the king, mainly from the nobility and church, providing guidance on policy and state matters.

Justices of the Peace (JPs)

Large landowners responsible for maintaining law and order in their local areas.

Sovereignty

Supreme power or authority; the authority of a state to govern itself.

Renaissance Man

A person who is knowledgeable, educated, and proficient in a variety of fields, exemplified by Henry VIII.

Catherine of Aragon

The first wife of Henry VIII, originally married to his brother Arthur, and mother of Mary I of England.

Courtly Love

An aristocratic code of love that demanded that noblemen perform brave deeds to win the affection of women.

Henry’s aims as a monarch

To control England’s policies, achieve military victories, create a magnificent royal court, and maintain law and order.

Strengths of Henry VIII

Popular with the people, inherited a rich and stable country, had experienced advisors, and connections through his wife.

Weaknesses of Henry VIII

Lacked government experience, preferred entertainment over governance, had a simplistic view of kingship, and pursued high-risk sports.