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Henry VIII Background - Coggle Diagram
Henry VIII Background
Accession of Henry VIII
- Henry VIII succeeded the throne at the age of 17. Although he was young he was NOT a minor. This contributed to a smooth succession which, was vital for the continuation of the dynasty.
- It had been seven years since the death of his brother. In this time Henry was able to prepare for his new role of King.
- Henry VIII's accession was welcomed as a breath of fresh air. He was viewed by many that the the last years of Henry VII's reign was tainted by the influence of Empson and Dudley.
- Henry has little to none experience in government or public affairs.
- Henry's version of kingship differed from his father's. He disliked business of the government and preferred to be less involved.
Structure of government
- Henry VIII was rarely engaged directly with the business of government. This meant, the structure of government evolved in his reign.
- Overall, there was renewed emphasis on governing through a council in the later stages of his reign.
- Henry for some part of his reign relied upon the work of a chief minister who shaped the structure of government to meet his own needs.
Legacy of Henry VII
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- The money that Henry inherited would vanish as a result of paying for aggressive foreign policy against France.
- The conciliar form of government would disappear in the short term as the result of the emergence of Wolsey as the focus of government.
- The key person in this process was Richard Fox, who assisted in the arrest of Empson and Dudley.
- Whilst Henry was not responsible for their arrest, he was responsible for their executions.
- Henry not only distanced himself from his father's regime, but also ensured his own popularity amongst nobility and the victims of his father's approach to taxation.
Character
- Henry was well educated and had acquaintance with new learning of humanism.
- He was described as extrovert, affable and charming.
- The early impression he created was viewed as very positive. Especially, as it contrasted with that of is father. Who in his old age grew distrusting and saddened by the loss of his wife and son.
- Henry did however, lack work ethic, preferring to spend time doing sports and at social gatherings.