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How did Wolsey rise to power? (He was able and ambitious (Lucky in the…
How did Wolsey rise to power?
He was able and ambitious
Lucky in the earlier years that many important ministers from Henry VII's reign were old and ready to retire
Although he was common he was very clever
Gained a degree from Oxford University at 15 years old
Took Holy orders in 1498
Appointed chaplain to Henry VII in 1507
Employed on small diplomatic missions
Impressed as an efficient administrator
Henry VIII thought his father's old councillors were too cautious
He was willing to give Wolsey a try
Became a Royal Almoner and a councillor in 1509
Gave him regular access to Henry VIII
Was willing to take on the mundane tasks of government
Allowed Henry to follow his own pursuits
He worked very hard and ruthlessly sidelined anyone who stood in his way
Helped organise a successful invasion of France which impressed Henry
Showed Henry he could do things efficiently and quickly
Made Bishop of Tournai and Lincoln and Archbishop of York in 1514
Became a Cardinal in September 1515
Later that year became Lord Chancellor (so he was completely in charge of the law)
Became Papal Legate in 1518
Not only was he completely in charge of the law, he was now also completely in charge of religion in England as the Pope's representative
Was effectively Chief Minister and the most powerful man in England after the King by 1515
His income was 10 times that of his nearest political rival
Many nobles were upset by not only his rapid rise and humble origins, but also his extravagant lifestyle