Henry VIII

Overview

Henry VIII, one of the most famous monarchs in English history, ruled England from 1509 to 1547. His reign was marked by significant political, religious, and personal events that shaped the course of English history. This timeline highlights key milestones in Henry VIII's life and reign.

Main Milestones

Birth of Henry VIII

28 June 1491

Henry VIII was born at Greenwich Palace in London, the second eldest son to Henry VII and Elizabeth of York. Initially not expected to become king, Henry's fate changed when his older brother, Arthur, Prince of Wales, died unexpectedly at the age of 15.

Death of Prince Arthur

2 April 1502

Prince Arthur, Henry's older brother, died of illness, making Henry the heir to the throne. This event set the stage for Henry's future reign.

Marriage to Catherine of Aragon

11 June 1509

Henry married Catherine of Aragon, his brother Arthur's widow, following a dispensation from Pope Julius II. This marriage would later become a central issue in Henry's conflict with the Roman Catholic Church.

Coronation of Henry VIII

24 June 1509

Henry VIII was crowned King of England at Westminster Abbey, marking the beginning of his reign. He was just 17 years old.

Reign and Cardinal Thomas Wolsey

1513-1529

Cardinal Thomas Wolsey served as Lord Chancellor to Henry VIII, playing a crucial role in Henry's early reign. Wolsey's influence helped shape Henry's foreign policy and religious affairs.

English Reformation

1533

Henry's desire to annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon led to a conflict with Pope Clement VII. Henry broke with the Roman Catholic Church, establishing the Church of England with himself as its supreme head.

Execution of Anne Boleyn

1536

Anne Boleyn, Henry's second wife, was executed at the Tower of London on charges of adultery, incest, and treason. This event marked a turning point in Henry's personal life and reign.

Birth of Edward VI

1537

Edward VI, Henry's son with Jane Seymour, was born. Edward would later succeed Henry as King of England.

Invasion of Scotland and Siege of Boulogne

1544

Henry's forces invaded Scotland and later besieged Boulogne in France. The siege ended with the surrender of Boulogne, but Henry's victory was short-lived due to a French counterattack.

Death of Henry VIII

28 January 1547

Henry VIII died at Whitehall Palace, leaving behind a legacy of significant political and religious changes in England. He was succeeded by his son Edward VI.

Other Themed Timelines

Early Life and Succession

Marriages and Divorces

Military Campaigns

Personal Life and Later Years

Religious Reforms and Conflicts

Themed Timelines

Talks

Media Collections

Overview

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