Henry VIII was responsible for the failures of English foreign policy in the years 1514-1529 - validity

Introduction

1. Partially agree - FP different to fathers, wants warrior king image, spending all money

2. However, failures also due to Wolsey and Cromwell; Wolsey had slight negative influence due to his exertion of power waning, constantly making bad decisions (annulment), Cromwell takes too much charge, shifting reformation back and forth (Act of 10 articles)

Agree - destroyed

1. Pressure from Henry on Wolsey - 1525 Amicable Grant created to fund aggressive FP, causes rebellions/widespread resistance as people cant afford the tax)

2. Attacks of France/HRE - all failed (siege of Boulogne, etc.) Wolsey was betrayed - pressure to secure the Pope for the divorce (Pope captured by Charles)

3. Henry decided not to launch full invasion of Scotland (just after Solway Moss and Rough Wooing)—he didn’t made the most of James’s death/power vacuum

4. Field of Cloth of Gold - chose allegiance with Charles which would subsequently leave England isolated thanks to the treaty of Cambrais (England not allowed in due to annulment issue with Catherine, H/V wars, Charles = nephew)

Disagree - kept

1. Wolsey - 1518 Treaty of London - move towards peace - decision lies with Wolsey

2. Henry VII guaranteed tense relations with Spain (Disputes over dowry with Catherine of Aragon after death of Arthur; Ferdinand initially not supportive of marriage due to instability in Europe = Warbeck)

3. Taxation - lack of money due to fear of raising taxes and following rebellions (1514, all money spent on FP, none left, amicable grant, subsidies)

4. Francis/Charles took far too much European power

Conclusion

Provide balanced judgement