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Henry VIII

 

            Henry the VIII reign of England is often overshadowed by his many wives. His 36 years as king of England is characterized by rash and imprudent decisions, and he usually put his personal life over that of England. Henry VIII had interesting life as one of England's most powerful rulers accompanied with accomplishments and failures that greatly altered England's history as well as its future.
             The Second son of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York, Henry VIII was born in 1491(Henry).Henry VII started to move the monarchy to royal absolutism, or divine right in kings; Elizabeth was born during the "War of the Roses" and had a moderately hard life after her father died. It was said her life didn't get much better after marrying Henry VII, on her 37 birthday Henry VII got her a tombstone, which she used shortly there after(). Henry VIII's youth he was taught Renaissance ideals and showed interest in music, athletics, arts, and poetry(Henry VIII). He was smart, religious, and showed skills in leadership. Henry VIII became heir to the throne at the age of eleven after his brother's death, Prince Author, in 1502 and became king in 1509.(Henry VIII) The kingdom he inherited had a healthy surplus and the parliament had not summoned supplies in five years(Henry). His early years as king he would be seen hunting or playing music, rather than attending governmental meetings.
             At the early age of 17 ruling England was generally too much for Henry and instead of ruling directly he would appointed others for matters of state(The history). Thomas Wolsey, Archbishop of York, mainly ruled England. He was also appointed to Lord Chancellor. Wolsey became the most powerful minister England has ever seen, and appointed many other people in the church; he basically governed the church and state in this time(Henry). In the early 1500's, Henry joined Pope Julius II, King Ferdinand II of Aragon, Rome emperor Maximilan I, and the Venetians in a Holy League against France.


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