Henry VIII Biography

Christened in the Church of the Observant Friars

Birth of Henry VIII, son of Henry VII & Elizabeth of York

Appointed Lieutenant General of Ireland

Appointed Marshal of England

Created Duke of York

Appointed Warden of the Cinque Ports

Death of Prince Arthur, Henry becomes heir to the throne

Prince Arthur dies & Henry becomes heir to the throne

Catherine of Aragon is betrothed to Henry VIII

"If a man shall take his brothers wife, it is impurity..they shall be childless"

Pope Julius grants dispensation for Henry to marry Catherine

Created Duke of Cornwall

Created Prince of Wales.

Henry VIII repudiates his betrothal to Catherine of Aragon

Accedes to the throne on the day of the death of his father Henry VII

Succeeds as King of England after the death of Henry VII.

Rides to the Tower with an escort led John de Vere with fears of unrest

Richard Empson & Edmund Dudley are scapegoats for Henry VIIs ministers extortion

Empson & Dudley are scapegoats for the extortion of Henry VIIs ministers

Henry's marriage to Catherine of Aragon re-allies England with Spain

Marries Catherine of Aragon, his dead brothers widow, daughter of Ferdinand II

Followed by a banquet in Westminster hall, "greater than any Caesar had known". Crowned at Westminster

Special assizes to redress grievances are abolished

Informs Ferdinand that Queen Catherine is pregnant

Really executed as a scapegoat for financial irregularities. Executed for "constructive treason" & preventing the King from removing him from power

Really executed as a scapegoat for financial irregularities. Executed for "constructive treason" & preventing the King from removing him from power

Executed for "constructive treason" & preventing the King from removing him from power

Parliament opens for the 1st time during Henrys reign. Opens Parliament, 21 Jaunuary-21 February

Birth of a stillborn daughter

Parliament grants Henry VIII subsidies, tonnage, poundage & wool duties for life

Henry VIIIs 1st Parliament closes

Catherine gives birth to her 1st child but it is born dead

Executed for "constructive treason". A useful scapegoat for Government financial irregularities

Executed for "constructive treason"

At a synod convened by Louis at Tours in September 1510, the French bishops withdrew from papal obedience, and resolved, with Emperor Maximilian's co-operation, to seek the deposition of the pope.

He allied with Ferdinand II of Aragon and the Venetians against France.

Henry VIII and Maximilian I also join the "Holy League of 1511."

In November 1511, a council met for this objective at Pisa.

Julius II joins the "Holy League of 1511".

Sets up a royal armory at Greenwich Palace

Birth of Henry of Richmond, son of Henry VIII

First Son, born at Richmond Palace, the Duke of Cornwall

Has a son who lives for only 52 days

Has a son who lives for only 52 days

Holds celebrations at Greenwich after the birth of Prince Henry.

Henry, Duke of Cornwall, the first surviving child of Catherine and Henry, dies after seven weeks.

Death of Henry, Duke of Cornwall, Henry VIII's first son.

Agrees to Ferdinands suggestion to invade Gascony

Council & Parliament endorse an alliance between England, Spain, the Pope & Venice

The Holy League Alliance is signed in Rome. England joins the Holy League against Louis XII of France, formed by Pope Julius II

Emperor Maximilian joins the Holy Alliance & agrees to invade France with England

The Regent, Englands chief ship is burnt

Birth of James V, Henry VIII nephew through Queen Margaret

Sends 7,000 to San Sebastian to help Spain capture Guiennre

An Anglo-Spanish campaign to capture Aquitaine is unsuccessful

The English troops do not support Ferdinand, they refuse to obey orders & return home

Act passed ordering wages to be paid in money for the production of woollen cloth

An Act attempts to maintane standards in pulling wollen yarn. Act passed ordering wages to be paid in money for the production of woollen cloth

An Act attempts to maintane standards in pulling wollen yarn. Act passed ordering wages to be paid in money for the production of woollen cloth

Sends 7,000 to San Sebastian to help Spain capture Guiennre

Opening of Henry VIIIs 2nd Parliament

The English arFerdinand captures Navarre

The English archers keep the French pinned down while Ferdinand captures Navarre

The invasion force sets sails but Henry does not accompany his army

Declares war on France

While Henry remains at home his army becomes mutinous

Atter victory at the Battle of the Spurs Henry VIII is able to capture Tournai

The English army under Dorset returns home

Henry VIII wishes to recapture Bordeaux, lost 60 yrs before

Decides after the Battle of Brest to construct Woolwich Docks to build more ships

Henry VIII decides after the Battle of Brest to construct Deptford Docks to build more ships

Appoints Surrey to defend England from the Scots while Henry leads an Army in France

The Scots help their French allies by invading England & crossing the River Tweed

Wolsey hires a Swiss mercenary army & invades Burgundy

Catherine's 3rd pregnancy ends in miscarriage

Ferdinand II & the Venetians desert Henry VIII & the Pope & make peace with France

Decides after the Battle of Brest to construct Woolwich Docks to build more ships

The Burgundians also agree to become mercenaries in Henrys invasion of France

Maximiliann agrees to be a mercenary in Henry's invasion of France. Leaves the Earl of Surrey in the north of England to defend the border from the Scots. England is unable to invade because Ferdinand fails to keep his promise of support

The Burgundians also agree to become mercenaries in Henrys invasion of France

Has Edmund de le Pole executed for acting as a mercenary in the French Army. Edmund de le Pole, supported by France as the "White Rose" pretender

Sets out from Greenwich to Dover amid much pomp & ceremony

Lands in Calais

Lands in Calais

An English fleet lays siege to Brest

An English fleet lays siege to Brest

Henry VIII & his Austrian mercenaries route the French, at Guinegate, now Enguinegatte, France. English troops under Henry VIII defeat a French army under Marshal La Palice. Called "battle of the Spurs" because of the haste of the French to leave the battlefield. Atter victory at the Battle of the Spurs Henry VIII is able to capture Tournai

Henry VIII lays siege to Therouanne & with a single cavalry charge manages to disperse the French

The Scottish king is killed & 1/3 of Scotlands Army destroyed. Peace descends on the northern border for most of Henry VIIIs reign. After Flodden Henry receives the boostained surcoat of the dead James IV

James V succeeeds to the Scots throne & peace is restored

Captures Tournai, the richest city in north east France

Signs a Treaty with Spain & the Hapsburgs to invade France in the summer of 1514

Agrees that his sister should marry Emperor Maximilian's grandson, Charles of Castille

Signs a Treaty with Spain & the Hapsburgs to invade France in the summer of 1514

Returns to England from Calais as the conqueror of both the French & the Scots

Reunited with Queen Catherine at Richmond

Birth of Second son at Richmond Palace, the Duke of Cornwall, who dies in the same month

Death of Second son who dies in the month of his birth

Suffers from smallpox

Ferdinand & the Emperor Maximilian leave the Holy League & make peace with France

The Henry Grace a Dieu, "Great Harry",

Launched at Erith, at over 1,000 tons the largest warship in the world

Sends letters to Margaret of Austria about Marys wedding to the Prince of Castille. Offers his sister Mary as a bride to Louis XII

Secures double the anual tribute paid by France to Henry VII. It is agreed that Henrys sister, Mary, will marry Louis XII

Charters trinity House in Deptford, site of the new Royal naval dockyard

Sends letters to Margaret of Austria about Marys wedding to the Prince of Castille

Henry VIIIs 2nd Parliament closes

Pope Leo X sends an envoy to Henry to ask him to make peace with France

Louis XII cedes Touraine & pays Henry 1 million francs not to claim the French throne

Mary repudiates her marriage contract to the Prince of Castille during a ceremony

Mary repudiates her marriage contract to the Prince of Castille during a ceremony

Louis proposes peace & signs a contract to marry Henrys sister Princess Mary

Henry VIII's sister Mary marries Archibald Douglas, 6th Earl of Angus

Wolsey negotiates & gains Tournai under the Treaty of St Germain-en-Laye

France & England are officially at peace after a peace Treaty is signed

Peace between England & Fance is declared after the defection of Henrys allies

Asks Pope Leo in a letter to make Wolsey a Cardinal

Reports the Anglo-French peace to the Pope

Marries Louis of France at a proxy wedding. Attended on Louis behalf by the Duke of Longueville

Mary Tudor, younger sister of Henry VIII, marries Louis XII

Birth of a stillborn son

The "Kings of England in times past have never had any superior but God alone"

An Act fixes wages for labourers & artifisans. An Act fixes hours for labourers & artificers. An Act converts pasture land to arable use & the rebuilding of decayed houses

Mary marries Brandon, Duke of Suffolk, in France without Henry VIII's permission

An Act fixes wages for labourers & artifisans. An Act fixes hours for labourers & artificers. An Act converts pasture land to arable use & the rebuilding of decayed houses

Opening of Henry VIIIs 3rd Parliament

Mary secretly marries Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk

Henry VIIIs 3rd Parliament closes

Henry travels regularly to stay ahead of the plague

Grants a Charter to establish the Royal College of Physicians

Uses the universal peace project to increase England's diplomatic influence between France, Spain, the Empire and the papacy.

Agrees terms for Tournai to return to French control in return for substantial financial payments.

Accepts the principle that treaty members should combine against a power that breaks the universal peace.

Approves the Anglo-French Treaty of Universal Peace, intended to form a wider European non-aggression and collective-security league.

Approves the Anglo-French treaty that becomes the foundation of Wolsey's wider European peace league.

A "Treaty of Universal & Perpetual Peace" is signed by England, France & the Papacy

Publicly swears to observe the Treaty of London during ceremonies at St Pauls Cathedral.

A "Treaty of Universal & Perpetual Peace" is signed by England, France & the Papacy

Approves the separate marriage agreement betrothing Princess Mary to the infant French Dauphin Francis.

A related agreement provides for Tournai to be restored to France in return for substantial payments to Henry VIII.

Agrees to restore Tournai to France under separate arrangements closely connected with the London peace settlement.

Henry's 3 year old daughter Mary is betrothed to Francis the Dauphin of France

Agrees in principle to a future personal meeting with Francis I to reinforce the new Anglo-French friendship.

Catherine of Aragon gives birth to another stillborn daughter

Birth of Henry Fitzroy, son of Elizabeth Blount & Henry VIII

Begins preparing a theological answer to Martin Luther that becomes the basis of the Defence of the Seven Sacraments.

The powers of jurisdiction of the Council & tribunals are given to the Star Chamber

Commissions Pietro Torrigiano to build him a majestic tomb

Orders Wolsey to reform his household & make it more profitable

Discussions begin to marry Princes Mary to her cousin Emperor Charles V

Discussions begin to marry Princes Mary to her cousin Emperor Charles V

Meets Francis I after the Field of Cloth of Gold between Calais & Gravelines. Henry & Wolsey stage an ornate meeting with Francis, hailed Eighth wonder of the World

Henry VIII attends the marriage of Thomas Boleyns daughter Mary to William Carey

Emperor Charles arrives in Dover & spends 3 days with Henry & Catherine in Canterbury

Arrives in Calais to meet with Francois

Meets Francis I at a summit, "the Field of Cloth of Gold", costs Henry œ15,000. Henry VIIIs jousting clothes alone cost œ3,000

Meets Francis I, the Feast of Corpus Christi

Henry VIII visits the French Queen, Claude

Says farewell to Francis I

Meets Francis I after the Field of Cloth of Gold between Calais & Gravelines

Meets Emperor Charles V

Henry VIII & Emperor Charles agree not to sign a new alliance with France for 2 yrs

Henry VIII & Emperor Charles agree not to sign a new alliance with France for 2 yrs

Francis I invades Navarre & entrusts Wolsey to discuss an alliance with the Emperor

After writing Assertio Septem Sacramentorum (Defence of the Seven Sacraments) in opposition to Luther, Henry VIII is rewarded with the title Fidei Defensor (Defender of the Faith) by Pope Leo X

Publishes the Assertio Septem Sacramentorum, defending the seven sacraments against Luther.

Publication of "Defence of the Seven Sacraments", attacks Martin Luther

After writing Assertio Septem Sacramentorum (Defence of the Seven Sacraments) in opposition to Luther, Henry VIII is rewarded with the title Fidei Defensor (Defender of the Faith) by Pope Leo X

After writing Assertio Septem Sacramentorum (Defence of the Seven Sacraments) in opposition to Luther, Henry VIII is rewarded with the title Fidei Defensor (Defender of the Faith) by Pope Leo X

Dedicates the Defence of the Seven Sacraments to Pope Leo X as a statement of Catholic orthodoxy.

After writing Assertio Septem Sacramentorum (Defence of the Seven Sacraments) in opposition to Luther, Henry VIII is rewarded with the title Fidei Defensor (Defender of the Faith) by Pope Leo X

After writing Assertio Septem Sacramentorum (Defence of the Seven Sacraments) in opposition to Luther, Henry VIII is rewarded with the title Fidei Defensor (Defender of the Faith) by Pope Leo X

Henry VIII begins using Defender of the Faith as part of his royal style.

A bill of attainder against Edward Stafford, Duke of Buckingham, proceeds before his execution for treason.

The title of Buckingham is made forfeit. Execution of Edward Stafford the Duke of Buckingham for high treason

Execution of Edward Stafford the Duke of Buckingham for high treason

Wolsey represents England in negotiations with Margaret of Austria for the anti-French alliance.

English and Imperial representatives negotiate the secret Treaty of Bruges for war against France.

The agreement envisages Henry VIII invading northern France while Charles V attacks French interests elsewhere.

English and Imperial representatives negotiate the secret Treaty of Bruges against Francis I of France.

The Treaty of Bruges plans an Anglo-Imperial campaign against Francis I of France.

Authorizes the Treaty of Bruges alliance with Charles V against France, undermining the universal peace system created in 1518.

Signs a secret Treaty with Charles V to launch a "great enterprise" against France

Henry VIII commits England to an alliance with Charles V against France.

The Treaty of Bruges binds Henry VIII and Charles V to an anti-French alliance.

The agreement prepares the ground for Henry VIII's Great Enterprise against France.

The treaty commits England to war against France in support of the Habsburg position.

Wolsey helps arrange the treaty with Imperial representatives while England moves away from neutrality.

Signs a secret Treaty with Charles V to launch a "great enterprise" against France

Signs a secret Treaty with Charles V to launch a "great enterprise" against France

Signs a secret Treaty with Charles V to launch a "great enterprise" against France

Henry VIII accepts plans for a major war with France in alliance with Charles V.

Pope Leo X grants Henry VIII the title Fidei Defensor, Defender of the Faith.

Pope Leo X grants Henry VIII the title Fidei Defensor, Defender of the Faith.

Pope Leo X confers "Fidei Defensor" on Henry VIII, used today by the monarchy. Awarded "Defender of the Faith" for his "Defence of the Seven Sacraments" by Leo X

Vetoes a plan by Wolsey to attack French ports as too wrisky

Martin Luther replies angrily to Henry VIII's Defence of the Seven Sacraments.

An alliance is agreed with Charles V against the French while a guest of Henry's

Henry VIII and Charles V confirm their anti-French alliance in the Treaty of Windsor.

The Treaty of Windsor postpones major joint action while keeping the Great Enterprise alive.

Signs a Treaty with Emperor Charles V. Confirms the anti-French alliance but postponing action until 1524

Surrey's raid tests English military pressure on France but achieves limited results.

The Earl of Surrey leads an English expedition into Picardy as a preliminary campaign against France.

England coordinates with Imperial and Bourbon interests against Francis I.

A league is formed comprising Henry VIII, the Habsburgs & the Bourbons

An Act of Attainder is passed against the Edward, Duke of Buckingham

Thomas More answers Luther in defence of Henry VIII's title and anti-Lutheran position.

Suffolk leads an 11,000 expedition into France

Suffolk crosses the Somme & threatens Paris but is forced to retreat

Act for the Pardon of the Clergy, the Clergy are forced to submit to Royal Supremacy

Worsteds woven in Norwich must be dyed anywhere except Norwich

Suffolk crosses the Somme & threatens Paris but is forced to retreat

Henry VIII prepares for the fuller invasion of France promised under the Anglo-Imperial alliance.

Opening of Henry VIIIs 4th Parliament

English forces gather at Calais for the invasion of northern France.

Henry VIIIs 4th Parliament closes

The Duke of Suffolk leads an English army through Picardy during the campaign against France.

English forces advance deep into northern France but fail to take Paris or force a decisive settlement.

Suffolk's army withdraws toward Calais after the 1523 campaign loses momentum.

Henry VIII and Wolsey continue planning a renewed invasion of France with Imperial support.

The cost of the Great Enterprise forces Wolsey to seek new ways of funding war with France.

Catherine refers to the "uncertainty of my life" after a bout of illness

Henry VIII no longer sleeps with Catherine because she is past childbearing age

Henry VIII acquires Hampton Court from Thomas Wolesey

The capture of Francis I at Pavia encourages Henry VIII to revive plans for a conquest of France.

The Habsburg victory at Pavia and capture of Francis I encourage Henry VIII to revive plans for war against France.

Francis I is captured during the Battle of Pavia

Francis I is captured at Pavia, creating an opening for Henry VIII to press English claims in France.

Francis I is captured during the Battle of Pavia, creating an opportunity for Henry VIII's French ambitions.

Henry VIII and Wolsey revive the Great Enterprise after the French defeat at Pavia.

The capture of Francis I at Pavia encourages Henry VIII to renew plans for an invasion of France.

Henry VIII and Wolsey consider schemes to partition France after the capture of Francis I at Pavia.

Wolsey attempts to raise a forced loan to fund Henry VIII's planned war against France.

Wolsey promotes the Amicable Grant to raise money for Henry VIII's revived Great Enterprise.

Wolsey proposes the Amicable Grant as a forced loan to finance Henry VIII's planned war against France.

Henry VIII orders renewed planning for the Great Enterprise after the French defeat at Pavia.

The government seeks money without parliamentary grant, increasing resentment against Wolsey's fiscal policy.

Public rejoicing at St Paul's Cathedral marks Henry VIII's hope that Pavia will enable a renewed French campaign.

Henry breaks off peace negotiations with France after Francis Is capture at Pavia

After Francis I's capture Henry VIII orders public rejoicing and a mass at St Paul's Cathedral.

The Amicable Grant is promoted to fund a planned invasion of France after the capture of Francis I.

The Amicable Grant is promoted to finance Henry VIII's proposed invasion of France.

The Amicable Grant is raised to finance Henry VIII's planned invasion of France.

The Amicable Grant is raised to invade France, 6th of laity & 3rd of clergy income. Commissioners are appointed to collect the Amicable Grant

The Amicable Grant seeks heavy payments from laity and clergy to finance Henry VIII's French war plans.

Opposition to the Amicable Grant spreads through Essex and threatens wider disorder.

Resistance to the Amicable Grant appears in Kent as taxpayers object to the forced contribution.

Taxpayers in Suffolk refuse payment and resistance grows in the cloth-making districts.

Opposition to the Amicable Grant extends into Essex and weakens the government's attempt to collect the levy.

Resistance to the Amicable Grant spreads in Suffolk as taxpayers refuse the forced loan.

Henry renounces the Amicable Grant

The Great Enterprise is abandoned after resistance to the Amicable Grant makes the proposed invasion unaffordable.

Henry VIII abandons the proposed invasion after the Amicable Grant fails to produce the necessary war finance.

Thousands gather at Lavenham in protest against the Amicable Grant and the burden of royal taxation.

Thousands gather at Lavenham to oppose the Amicable Grant and the burden of royal taxation.

Leaders of the Amicable Grant resistance submit before royal authority and are pardoned.

Ringleaders of the Amicable Grant resistance are brought before Star Chamber and pardoned after submission.

The failure of the Amicable Grant damages Wolsey's authority and exposes limits on extra-parliamentary taxation.

The Duke of Suffolk confronts organised resistance to the levy and warns of the danger of rebellion.

The Duke of Suffolk confronts armed resistance to the Amicable Grant in the cloth districts of Suffolk.

Opposition to the Amicable Grant threatens armed disorder and undermines Henry VIII's French war plans.

Henry VIII abandons the Amicable Grant after widespread opposition makes collection impossible.

Henry VIII abandons the Amicable Grant after widespread resistance and the danger of rebellion.

Henry VIII 1st meets Anne Boleyn, when Thomas Boleyn is created Viscount Rochford

Makes his illegitimate son, Henry Fitzroy, Duke of Richmond

Henry VIII accepts peace with France after the failure of the Great Enterprise and the Amicable Grant.

Henry VIII agrees peace with France after the failure of the Amicable Grant and the Great Enterprise.

Peace with France follows the collapse of Henry VIII's attempt to finance a renewed French campaign.

The treaty redirects English policy from invasion planning toward diplomatic settlement with France.

Wolsey & Henry VIII draw up the "Eltham Ordinances" to reform the Household & Chamber

Spends a "still Christmas" away from the plague

Sends agents abroad to try & arrest John Tyndale

Sends 200 men to guard over James Vs coronation, invited by the Earl of Angus

Begins courting Anne Boleyn

Harry Phillips, an agent of Henry VIII, arrests John Tyndale for heresy

Becomes "protector" of the Holy League of Cognac against Charles V

Rome is captured by the Habsburgs ruining Henrys chances of an easy divorce

Rome is captured by the Habsburgs ruining Henry's chances of an easy divorce

Henry VIII seeks an annulment from Catherine of Aragon, beginning the crisis that leads to the break with Rome.

Spring, has 1st doubts about his marriage to Catherine of Aragon. Beginning of "the King's Great Matter"

After the Treaty of Greenwich Henry VII & Francis I exchange orders of chivalry

Henry informs Catherine they must separate & he has asked the Pope for an annulment. The Pope is under arrest by Catherine's uncle Charles V & does not grant an annulment

Receives an embassy from Paris to discuss a "Treaty of Eternal Peace"

Arrangements are made for Princess Mary to marry Henry, Duke of Orleans

Asks the Pope for an annulment

Signs the Treaty of Westminster with King Francis against Emperor Charles V. Signs the Treaty of Westminster with Henry VIII against Emperor Charles V

Signs the Treaty of Westminster with King Francis against Emperor Charles V. Signs the Treaty of Westminster with Henry VIII against Emperor Charles V

The Treaty of Greenwich is signed with France

Wolsey & Warham convene an ecclesiastical court to examine the King's marriage. An ecclesiastical court hears Henry's requests for an annulment

Henry informs Catherine they must separate & he has asked the Pope for an annulment

The peace Treaty of Amiens between France & England is confirmed

Signed with France after the Battle of Pavia. Enforced while Francis I is Charles Vs prisoner

Installed as Knight of the Order of St Michael by Anne de Montmorency

Strips Wolsey of his assets allowing him to retire to Esher & then to York

In 10 years Henry VIII spends more than œ62,000 rebuilding and extending Hampton Court, worth approximately œ18 million

Henry VIII asks the Pope for a dispensation for him to marry Anne Boleyn

Cardinal Campeggio is sent by the Pope to hear Henry's case for annulment

Has Wolsey arrested & sent to the Tower but he dies en route at Leicester Abbey

Has Wolsey dismissed

Appoints Thomas More Chancellor to get Parliament to grant him a divorce

Pope Clement VII is a prisoner of Catherine's nephew Emperor Charles. Despite a hearing presided over by Wolsey & Campeggio the Pope denies the annulment

France is defeated & the Pope is forced to come to terms with Emperor Charles

Henry claims he would Catherine back if the marriage was valid. Catherine pleads with Henry in public at the Parliament Chamber at Blackfriars

Attends the divorce tribunal on final day but papal legates refer the divorce to Rome

France & Spain make peace with Charles V, Henry is now totally isolated

Accedes to the Treaty of Cambrai

Henry VIII appoints Thomas More Chancellor to unite his Council

Opening of the Reformation Parliament. Opening of Henry VIIIs 5th Parliament

The Reformation Parliament opens and becomes the legislative engine of Henry VIII's break with Rome.

Opening of the Reformation Parliament

Parliament meets to begin a programme of Church reform that lasts until 1536

Parliament meets to begin a programme of Church reform that lasts until 1536

Parliament meets to begin a programme of Church reform that lasts until 1536

Creates Thomas Boleyn Earl of Wiltshire

Royal scholars compile arguments claiming that English kings hold imperial authority within their own realm.

Foxe & Cranmer justify the usurpation of papal jurisdiction. Foxe & Cranmer justify the supremacy of the sovereign

Tyndales books are banned by royal proclamation, Henry holds out the promise of an officially authorised English Bible being prepared by learned and catholic scholars

Summons a Great Council to Hampton Court to request a divorce but is refused

An act fixes the fee for apprenticeship to 2s 6d maximum

Henry VIII summons a Great Council to Hampton Court to request a divorce but is refused

Informs Julius II, approval to marry his brothers widow was against natural law. Cranmer & Foxe draft the "Collectanea" justifying Henry VIII's divorce from Catherine

An act fixes the fee for apprenticeship to 2s 6d maximum

Foxe & Cranmer justify the supremacy of the sovereign

Tyndales books are banned by royal proclamation, Henry holds out the promise of an officially authorised English Bible being prepared by learned and catholic scholars

Foxe & Cranmer justify the supremacy of the sovereign

Has Thomas Wolsey arrested for high treason

Has Thomas Wolsey arrested for high treason

Death of Thomas Wolsey, en route to London to be executed for high treason

Death of Thomas Wolsey, en route to London to be executed for high treason

Henry raises extra money from the clergy because of threats of invasion from Charles V

The Act of Appeals prevents the clergy from appealing to Rome. Act abolishing benefit of Clergy for those charged with murder or robbery

The Act of Appeals prevents the clergy from appealing to Rome. Act abolishing benefit of Clergy for those charged with murder or robbery

Henry raises extra money from the clergy because of threats of invasion from Charles V

The Convocation of clergy agree to pay extra taxation

The Convocation of clergy agree to pay extra taxation

On failing famously to receive his desired annulment from the Pope, Henry had himself declared Supreme Head of the Church in England in February 1531

The clergy accept a heavy fine after being charged with praemunire for recognising Wolsey's legatine authority.

Henry wants to be, "sole protector & supreme head of the English Church & clergy"

Parliament makes Henry VIII Supreme Head of the Church in England

Convocation recognises Henry VIII as supreme head of the English Church so far as the law of Christ allows.

Henry VIII separates from Catherine & banishes her from court

Death of Thomas Wolsey, on the way to London to answer charges of treason

Death of Thomas Wolsey, on the way to London to answer charges of treason

Henry renews the Anglo-French alliance

Henry renews the Anglo-French alliance

Parliament begins restricting payments of annates to Rome as pressure increases on the papacy.

Arranges a marriage with France to a relative of Clement VII to bargain with the Pope

The Clergy is brought under control of the laws of England. Passes the Act for Submission, the clergy cannot appeal to Rome

Act in Restraint of Annates, newly appointed Bishops make payments to the crown

Uses Pope Eleutherius letter addressing the King of Britain as "vicar of God". Existing Canons will be veted by royal commission & prejudicial annulled. Canons cannot be enacted without royal assent. Act in Restraint of Annates, the Crown now has the right to appoint the Bishops. Act in Restraint of Annates, newly appointed Bishops make payments to the crown

The Clergy is brought under control of the laws of England. Passes the Act for Submission, the clergy cannot appeal to Rome

The offspring of Anne & Henry become heirs to the throne. Men of prominence are required to swear loyalty to Royal supremacy. Mary is made illegitimate. It becomes treasonable to declare the King a heretic or usurper

Uses Pope Eleutherius letter addressing the King of Britain as "vicar of God"

The Commons present grievances against ecclesiastical courts and clerical lawmaking to Henry VIII.

The King demands of Convocation that the Church renounce all authority to make laws

Thomas Cromwell prevents the Convocation of the Clergy

Thomas Cromwell prevents the Convocation of the Clergy. New canons require royal assent & existing ones will be vetted by a royal commission

The Submission of the Clergy was subscribed, which recognised Royal Supremacy over the church so that it could no longer make canon law without royal licencei.e., without the King's permissionthus emasculating it as a law-making body

The clergy submit their lawmaking authority to the Crown and agree not to enact canons without royal licence.

The Submission of the Clergy was subscribed, which recognised Royal Supremacy over the church so that it could no longer make canon law without royal licencei.e., without the King's permissionthus emasculating it as a law-making body

The Submission of the Clergy was subscribed, which recognised Royal Supremacy over the church so that it could no longer make canon law without royal licencei.e., without the King's permissionthus emasculating it as a law-making body

Thomas More resigns as Lord Chancellor after refusing to support Henry VIII's break with Rome.

Thomas More resigns as Lord Chancellor after the Submission of the Clergy.

Anne Boleyn is created Marquess of Pembroke.

Henry VIII meets Francis I at Calais and seeks French support for his intended marriage to Anne Boleyn.

Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn go through a private marriage ceremony after returning from Calais.

Henry VIII & Anne Boleyn visit Francis I of France in Calais

The Act Concerning Peters Pence and Dispensations outlaws the annual payment by landowners of one penny to the Pope

The Act of First Fruits and Tenths transfers the taxes on ecclesiastical income from the Pope to the Crown

The Venetian Ambassador speaks "in a lewd fashion" about Henry, Council & is recalled. The Venetian Ambassador is not replaced for 50 yrs. Pope Clement VII threatens excommunication, Henry recalls his envoys from Rome

Thomas Wyatt is arrested for adultery with Anne Boleyn. Mark Smeaton is arrested for adultery with Anne Boleyn

The Act in Restraint of Appeals reaches the statute books, it ends appeals to Rome

The Act of First Fruits and Tenths transfers the taxes on ecclesiastical income from the Pope to the Crown. The Act Concerning Peters Pence and Dispensations outlaws the annual payment by landowners of one penny to the Pope

The Act in Restraint of Appeals reaches the statute books, it ends appeals to Rome

The Act Concerning Peters Pence and Dispensations also reiterates that England had "no superior under God, but only your Grace" and that Henrys "imperial crown" had been diminished by "the unreasonable and uncharitable usurpations and exactions" of the Pope

The Act Concerning Peters Pence and Dispensations outlaws the annual payment by landowners of one penny to the Pope

The Act of First Fruits and Tenths transfers the taxes on ecclesiastical income from the Pope to the Crown

The marriage of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon is declared null and void by Thomas Cranmer, Archbishop of Canterbury in defiance of the Catholic church. Henry later marries Anne Boleyn

The marriage of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon is declared null and void by Thomas Cranmer, Archbishop of Canterbury in defiance of the Catholic church. Henry later marries Anne Boleyn

Anne Boleyn's pregnancy gives urgency to Henry VIII's attempt to secure recognition of the marriage.

Henry VIII marries Anne Boleyn in a secret ceremony while his marriage to Catherine of Aragon is still disputed.

Marries Anne Boleyn in secret

Appoints Thomas Cranmer Archbishop of Canterbury

An Act in Restraint of Appeals eliminated the right of clergy to appeal to "foreign tribunals" (Rome) over the King's head in any spiritual or financial matter. All ecclesiastical charges and levies that had previously been payable to Rome, would now go to the King. Those who refused to assent to the Royal Supremacy were liable to execution for treason

All ecclesiastical charges and levies that had previously been payable to Rome, would now go to the King. Those who refused to assent to the Royal Supremacy were liable to execution for treason. All ecclesiastical charges and levies that had previously been payable to Rome, would now go to the King, those who refused to assent to the Royal Supremacy were liable to execution for treason

An Act in Restraint of Appeals eliminated the right of clergy to appeal to "foreign tribunals" (Rome) over the King's head in any spiritual or financial matter. All ecclesiastical charges and levies that had previously been payable to Rome, would now go to the King, those who refused to assent to the Royal Supremacy were liable to execution for treason

All ecclesiastical charges and levies that had previously been payable to Rome, would now go to the King. Those who refused to assent to the Royal Supremacy were liable to execution for treason. All ecclesiastical charges and levies that had previously been payable to Rome, would now go to the King, those who refused to assent to the Royal Supremacy were liable to execution for treason

An Act in Restraint of Appeals eliminated the right of clergy to appeal to "foreign tribunals" (Rome) over the King's head in any spiritual or financial matter. All ecclesiastical charges and levies that had previously been payable to Rome, would now go to the King, those who refused to assent to the Royal Supremacy were liable to execution for treason

An Act in Restraint of Appeals eliminated the right of clergy to appeal to "foreign tribunals" (Rome) over the King's head in any spiritual or financial matter. All ecclesiastical charges and levies that had previously been payable to Rome, would now go to the King. Those who refused to assent to the Royal Supremacy were liable to execution for treason

All ecclesiastical charges and levies that had previously been payable to Rome, would now go to the King. Those who refused to assent to the Royal Supremacy were liable to execution for treason. All ecclesiastical charges and levies that had previously been payable to Rome, would now go to the King, those who refused to assent to the Royal Supremacy were liable to execution for treason

The Act gives final authority in matrimonial and ecclesiastical causes to courts within the king's realm.

The Act in Restraint of Appeals declares England an empire and forbids appeals from English courts to Rome.

Cranmer declares Henry's marriage to Catherine null & void

Cranmer declares Henry VIII's marriage to Catherine of Aragon invalid under English ecclesiastical authority.

Cranmer declares Henry VIII's marriage to Catherine of Aragon null and void.

Cranmer declares Henry VIII's marriage to Anne Boleyn valid.

Anne Boleyn processes from the Tower toward Westminster before her coronation.

Thomas More refuses to attend the coronation of Anne Boleyn as Queen of England.

Anne Boleyn is crowned Queen

Anne Boleyn is crowned Queen of England at Westminster Abbey.

Excommunicated by Pope Clement VII. Clement VII declares the divorce from Catherine illegal. Clement VII declares Anne & Henry's children illegitimate

Pope Clement VII threatens Henry VIII with excommunication unless he abandons the marriage to Anne Boleyn.

Anne Boleyn gives birth at Greenwich to the future Elizabeth I.

Anne Boleyn gives birth in Greenwich to the future Elizabeth I

Anne Boleyn gives birth to Princess Elizabeth, Henry VIII's daughter and future queen.

Elizabeth Barton, the "Holy Maid of Kent", is arrested for treason

Elizabeth Barton, the "Holy Maid of Kent", is arrested for treason

Given authority by the Act of Supremaycy, passed by Parliament in 1534, which makes Henry Supreme Head of the Church in England, separating England from Papal authority & by the First Suppression Act (1536) and the Second Suppression (1539)

Although some monastic foundations dated back to Anglo-Saxon England, the majority of the 825 dissolved by Henry VIII owed their existence to the wave of monastic enthusiasm that swept England and Wales in the 11th & 12th Centuries

Given authority by the Act of Supremaycy, passed by Parliament in 1534, which makes Henry Supreme Head of the Church in England, separating England from Papal authority & by the First Suppression Act (1536) and the Second Suppression (1539).

Henry had Parliament authorise Thomas Cromwell to "visit" all the monasteries, including those like the Cistercians previously exempted by Papal dispensation, to purify them in their religious life, and to instruct them in their duty to obey the King.

Thomas More writes devotional works while imprisoned for refusing to accept the royal religious settlement.

Abolition of Peters Pence & other Papal Taxes.

Act for the Submission of the Clergy to the King's Majesty is passed.

An Act is passed for the Submission of the Clergy.

It becomes treason to deny royal titles or call the King a heretic or usurper.

It becomes treason to rebel against royalty by words.

The Act in Restraint of Annates is passed.

The Convocation of the Clergy has its legislative powers curtailed.

The King is to appoint Bishops & Abbots.

The Treason Act is passed

The Treason Act is passed. The 2nd Act of Annates, financial links with Rome are severed. Act for Payment of First Fruits, increases clerical taxation

Given authority by the Act of Supremaycy, passed by Parliament in 1534, which makes Henry Supreme Head of the Church in England, separating England from Papal authority & by the First Suppression Act (1536) and the Second Suppression (1539)

Act for the Submission of the Clergy to the King's Majesty is passed.

An Act is passed for the Submission of the Clergy.

The Convocation of the Clergy has its legislative powers curtailed.

The King is to appoint Bishops & Abbots.

It becomes treason to rebel against royalty by words.

The Act in Restraint of Annates is passed.

It becomes treason to deny royal titles or call the King a heretic or usurper.

Abolition of Peters Pence & other Papal Taxes.

The Treason Act is passed. The 2nd Act of Annates, financial links with Rome are severed. Act for Payment of First Fruits, increases clerical taxation

Parliament passes the Treasons Act 1534, which makes it high treason punishable by death to deny Royal Supremacy. Cromwell initiated a Visitation of the Monasteries ostensibly to examine their character, but in fact, to value their assets with a view to expropriation.

The Crown was undergoing financial difficulties, and the wealth of the church, in contrast to its political weakness, made appropriation of church property both tempting and feasible

The break with Rome was effected by a series of Acts of Parliament passed between 1532 and 1534, among them the 1534 Act of Supremacy which declared that Henry was the "Supreme Head on earth of the Church of England".

Separates the Church from the Roman Catholic Church

The Succession Act recognises Anne Boleyn as Henry's lawful wife and her children as legitimate heirs.

Henry decided to remove the Church of England from the authority of Rome. The Act of Supremacy recognizes Henry as "the only Supreme Head on earth of the Church of England"

Parliament passes the Treasons Act 1534, which makes it high treason punishable by death to deny Royal Supremacy. Cromwell initiated a Visitation of the Monasteries ostensibly to examine their character, but in fact, to value their assets with a view to expropriation.

The Crown was undergoing financial difficulties, and the wealth of the church, in contrast to its political weakness, made appropriation of church property both tempting and feasible

The break with Rome was effected by a series of Acts of Parliament passed between 1532 and 1534, among them the 1534 Act of Supremacy which declared that Henry was the "Supreme Head on earth of the Church of England".

Henry decided to remove the Church of England from the authority of Rome. The Act of Supremacy recognizes Henry as "the only Supreme Head on earth of the Church of England"

The Treason Act is passed. It becomes treason to rebel against royalty by words. It becomes treason to deny royal titles or call the King a heretic or usurper

The Treason Act is passed

Pope Clement VII declares Henry VIIIs marriage to Anne Boleyn null & void

The Pope declares that Henry's marriage to Catherine is valid

The Act of Succession is passed. Only children from Henrys marriage to Anne Boleyn are lawful heirs

The Act of Succession is passed. Only children from Henrys marriage to Anne Boleyn are lawful heirs

The Appointment of Bishops Act transfers control of episcopal appointments from papal provision to royal procedures.

Parliament ends Peter's Pence and other payments formerly made from England to Rome.

Parliament confirms the Submission of the Clergy and limits independent ecclesiastical legislation.

Parliament gives statutory force to Henry VIII's new dynastic settlement after the break with Catherine of Aragon.

Princess Elizabeth is recognised as heir presumptive after the birth of Anne Boleyn's daughter.

Princess Mary is excluded from the succession after the annulment of Henry's marriage to Catherine of Aragon.

The Act declares Henry VIII's marriage to Catherine of Aragon invalid for purposes of the royal succession.

The Act excludes Mary from the succession and recognises Elizabeth as heir presumptive.

The First Succession Act gives statutory force to Henry VIII's marriage settlement and succession through Anne Boleyn.

The First Succession Act receives royal assent, settling the succession on the children of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn.

The First Succession Act recognises Anne Boleyn as Henry VIII's lawful wife and her children as legitimate heirs.

Parliament attaints Elizabeth Barton and her supporters after her prophecies against Henry VIII's marriage policy.

Henry had Parliament authorise Thomas Cromwell to "visit" all the monasteries, including those like the Cistercians previously exempted by Papal dispensation, to purify them in their religious life, and to instruct them in their duty to obey the King

Thomas More accepts Parliament's power over succession but refuses the oath because it rejects papal authority.

Thomas More is summoned to swear the oath recognising Henry VIII's marriage settlement and succession.

Thomas More is arrested after refusing to swear the oath required by the succession settlement.

Sir Thomas More is arrested for refusing to take the oath of succession

Thomas More is imprisoned in the Tower of London after refusing the oath of succession.

Elizabeth Barton, the Nun of Kent, is executed for treason.

John Fisher is arrested for refusing to take the oath of succession

Henry VIII makes peace with James V

Silken Thomas gathers supporters after rumours that his father, the Earl of Kildare, has been executed in England.

Thomas FitzGerald, known as Silken Thomas, renounces allegiance to Henry VIII at St Mary's Abbey in Dublin.

Thomas FitzGerald publicly renounces allegiance to Henry VIII at St Mary's Abbey in Dublin.

Birth of a stillborn child to Anne Boleyn

The rebels fail to seize Dublin Castle, the centre of English government in Ireland.

Silken Thomas attacks Dublin Castle but fails to seize the centre of English government in Ireland.

Archbishop John Alen is killed by followers of Silken Thomas during the Kildare rebellion.

Archbishop John Alen is killed by followers of Silken Thomas during the rebellion.

The Kildare rebels maintain pressure around Dublin while royal forces struggle to restore order.

The Kildare rebels maintain pressure around Dublin while royal forces work to restore control.

English reinforcements are sent to Ireland to suppress the Kildare rebellion.

Parliament recognises Henry VIII as Supreme Head on earth of the Church of England.

The Act of Supremacy makes Henry VIII Supreme Head of the Church of England, changing the political meaning of Defender of the Faith.

The Act of Supremacy recognises Henry VIII as Supreme Head on earth of the Church of England.

The royal supremacy gives the English Crown jurisdiction over the national church.

The First Fruits and Tenths Act diverts clerical revenues formerly linked to Rome to the English Crown.

Refusal to swear the succession oath becomes a grave political and religious offence.

Refusal to swear the succession oath is treated as treason against the king's authority.

The Act requires recognition of Anne Boleyn as Henry VIII's lawful wife and of her children as legitimate heirs.

The Oath to the Succession Act receives royal assent, requiring subjects to swear to the succession settlement.

The Oath to the Succession Act requires subjects to swear obedience to Henry VIII's succession settlement.

The Oath to the Succession Act requires subjects to swear to Henry VIII's succession settlement.

The Treasons Act receives royal assent and makes malicious denial of Henry VIII's supremacy punishable as high treason.

The Act makes it treason to deny maliciously the king's royal supremacy and lawful titles.

The Act makes resistance to the royal supremacy and succession settlement punishable as high treason.

The Treasons Act makes malicious denial of the king's royal supremacy and titles punishable as high treason.

The Treasons Act receives royal assent and creates new statutory offences of high treason.

The Treasons Act receives royal assent, reinforcing the succession settlement by criminalising opposition to Henry's authority.

Henry VIII commutes Fishers sentence of treason to beheading. Commutes Mores sentence of treason to beheading & permits Mores family to attend

Thomas Cromwell visits Thomas More in the Tower and urges him to accept the oath and royal supremacy.

The Act for the Dissolution of the Lesser Monasteries, an Act of the English Reformation Parliament, the beginning of the legal process by which King Henry VIII set about the Dissolution of the Monasteries

Anne Boleyn remains queen while opposition to the royal marriage and succession settlement is punished.

Cranmer had difficult encounters with several bishops including John Stokesley, John Longland, and Stephen Gardiner who object to Cranmers power and title and argue that the Act of Supremacy did not define his role thus prompting Thomas Cromwell, the King's Chief Minister, to activate and to take the office of the Vice Regent, the deputy supreme head of ecclesiastical affair

The Act for the Dissolution of the Lesser Monasteries, an Act of the English Reformation Parliament, the beginning of the legal process by which King Henry VIII set about the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Cromwell creates another set of institutions that give a clear structure to the royal supremacy, the Archbishop of Canterbury is eclipsed by the Vice Regent Cromwell in regards to the King's spiritual jurisdiction

Thomas More continues to refuse the oath while avoiding an explicit public denial of Henry VIII's supremacy.

Cromwell creates another set of institutions that give a clear structure to the royal supremacy, the Archbishop of Canterbury is eclipsed by the Vice Regent Cromwell in regards to the King's spiritual jurisdiction

The Act for the Dissolution of the Lesser Monasteries, an Act of the English Reformation Parliament, the beginning of the legal process by which King Henry VIII set about the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Cromwell creates another set of institutions that give a clear structure to the royal supremacy, the Archbishop of Canterbury is eclipsed by the Vice Regent Cromwell in regards to the King's spiritual jurisdiction

Henry VIII commutes Fishers sentence of treason to beheading. Commutes Mores sentence of treason to beheading & permits Mores family to attend

Sanctuary is removed from persons accused of high treason under the expanded Tudor treason law.

The Act makes hostile speech against the king's title, marriage and succession punishable as high treason.

The Crown surveys ecclesiastical wealth in England and Wales to assess church revenues under royal control.

Cromwell creates another set of institutions that give a clear structure to the royal supremacy, the Archbishop of Canterbury is eclipsed by the Vice Regent Cromwell in regards to the King's spiritual jurisdiction

Thomas Cromwell becomes the king's chief minister for enforcing royal supremacy over the Church.

The Treasons Act comes into force and gives legal force to penalties against opponents of royal supremacy.

The Treasons Act comes into force, increasing the danger for those who reject the king's supremacy.

The Treasons Act comes into force, strengthening the legal penalties for opposition to royal supremacy.

Sir William Skeffington captures Maynooth Castle, the chief stronghold of the Kildare rebellion.

Sir William Skeffington captures Maynooth Castle, the main stronghold of the Kildare rebellion.

Kildare is defeated at Maynooth Castle, County Kildare

Kildare is defeated at Maynooth Castle, County Kildare

Cromwell orders the imprisonment of the Clergy preaching Papal supremacy

Thomas More is indicted for high treason under the legislation enforcing royal supremacy.

Appointed Supreme Head of the Church

John Fisher is executed after refusing to accept Henry VIII's supremacy over the Church.

John Fisher, Bishop of Rochester, is executed

Appointed Supreme Head of the Church

Lord Leonard Grey strengthens royal control in Ireland after the collapse of rebel resistance.

Lord Leonard Grey arrives in Ireland to strengthen royal authority after the Kildare revolt.

Henry VIII commutes Thomas More's sentence from hanging, drawing and quartering to beheading.

Thomas More is sentenced to the traitor's death of hanging, drawing and quartering.

Richard Rich gives evidence that Thomas More denied Parliament's power to make Henry VIII head of the Church.

Thomas More argues that his silence should not be treated as treason against Henry VIII.

Thomas More is tried for high treason before a commission including Thomas Audley and the Duke of Norfolk.

The jury finds Thomas More guilty of high treason after a brief deliberation.

Birth of a stillborn child

Thomas More is beheaded at Tower Hill for refusing to accept Henry VIII's supremacy over the Church.

Sir Thomas More is executed

Thomas More is executed after refusing to accept the royal supremacy and succession oath.

The failed Kildare rebellion ends with Silken Thomas in English custody.

The collapse of the Kildare rebellion leaves Silken Thomas in English hands and ends his armed resistance.

Silken Thomas surrenders after the failure of the Kildare rebellion.

Silken Thomas surrenders after the collapse of the Kildare rebellion.

Henry VIII visits John Seymour & meets his daughter Jane

Silken Thomas is sent as a prisoner to the Tower of London.

Silken Thomas is sent to the Tower of London as a prisoner after his surrender.

Parliament passes the Act against the Popes Authority, which removes the last part of papal authority still legal

Cromwell convinces Henry Anne had committed incest with her brother

Lord George Rochford is arrested for adultery with Anne Boleyn, Anne's brother

The Privy Council replaces the King's Council

To pacify the rebels Jane joins Henry VIII on a tour of the north & is crowned in York

The Dissolution of the Monasteries, sometimes referred to as the Suppression of the Monasteries, was the administrative and legal processes between 1536 and 1541 by which Henry VIII disbanded monasteries, priories, convents and friaries in England, Wales. Decides to dissolve or nationalize the smaller monasteries

Parliament passes the Act against the Popes Authority, which removes the last part of papal authority still legal

The Act of Succession is passed. Section IX allows Henry to bestow the crown on one of his daughters. Allowed to appoint his successor if he does not sire a male heir

Offers to marry Madeleine the daughter of Francis I but is refused

Parliament approves the marriage to Anne Boleyn & the break with Rome

Parliament completes the break with Rome

To pacify the rebels Jane joins Henry VIII on a tour of the north & is crowned in York

The Act of Succession is passed. Section IX allows Henry to bestow the crown on one of his daughters. Allowed to appoint his successor if he does not sire a male heir

Parliament passes the Act against the Popes Authority, which removes the last part of papal authority still legal

Found guilty of adultery with Anne Boleyn & condemned to die by beheading

Catherine of Aragon dies, removing Henry VIII's first wife from the marriage dispute.

Death of Catherine of Aragon, Henry & Anne's offspring can inherit the throne

Birth of a stillborn son, Henry believes his marriage to Anne is damned

Catherine of Aragon is buried at Peterborough Abbey.

Anne Boleyn miscarries a male child, weakening her position at court.

Anne Boleyn miscarries a male child, weakening her position at court.

When Anne miscarries a son, the begins to reflect again on the biblical prohibitions that had haunted him during his marriage with Catherine of Aragon

When Anne miscarries a son, the begins to reflect again on the biblical prohibitions that had haunted him during his marriage with Catherine of Aragon

The Act of Suppression is passed

The Act of Suppression is passed

The Court of Augmentations is created to manage monastic property taken into royal hands.

Henry VIIIs 5th Parliament closes

Parliament authorises the dissolution of smaller monasteries and transfers their property to the Crown.

Royal Assent is given to the bill uniting Wales & England

commissions Cromwell to prepare the case for a divorce

Mark Smeaton is arrested during the investigation into allegations against Anne Boleyn.

Mark Smeaton is arrested for having an affair with Anne Boleyn

Henry Norris is arrested for having an affair with Anne Boleyn

Beginning of the reformation of the Church in Ireland

Anne Boleyn is arrested and taken to the Tower of London on charges of adultery, incest and treason.

George Boleyn is arrested with other men accused in the case against Anne Boleyn.

George Boleyn is arrested for high treason. Anne Boleyn is imprisoned in the Tower of London

George Boleyn is arrested for high treason

William Brereton is arrested for high treason. Francis Weston is arrested for high treason

William Brereton is arrested for high treason. Francis Weston is arrested for high treason

Thomas Wyatt is arrested for high treason. Richard Page is arrested for infidelities with Anne Boleyn

Thomas Wyatt is arrested for high treason

Anne Boleyn is indicted for high treason

Anne Boleyn is indicted for high treason

Anne Boleyn and George Boleyn are tried for high treason before a court of peers.

Found guilty & will be burned or beheaded according to Henry VIII's wishes

Parliament passes an act of attainder against Anne Boleyn and those accused with her before her execution.

William Brereton is executed. Mark Smeaton is executed. Henry Norriss is executed. George Boleyn is executed. Francis Weston is executed

George Boleyn, Henry Norris, Francis Weston, William Brereton and Mark Smeaton are executed.

Henry VIII's marriage to Anne Boleyn is declared invalid before her execution.

Cranmer annuls Henry VIII's marriage to Anne Boleyn before her execution.

Has Anne Boleyn executed for high treason & adultery

Anne Boleyn is executed

Has Anne Boleyn executed for high treason & adultery

Anne Boleyn is executed by sword within the Tower of London.

Has Anne Boleyn executed for high treason & adultery

Henry VIII is betrothed to Jane Seymour

Marries Jane Seymour, at York Place

Opening of Henry VIIIs 6th Parliament

The leader of the Pilrimage of Grace is executed

The Act of Succession is passed

The Act of Succession, section IX allows Henry to bestow the crown on his daughters

The Act of Succession is passed

Mary & Elizabeth are bastardized, succession going to Jane Seymours son Edward VI

The Ten Articles define official doctrine for the Church of England under Henry VIII's supremacy.

The Ten Articles of Protestant faith are passed

The Ten Articles are passed

The Ten Articles of Protestant faith are passed

Parliament extinguishes remaining claims of papal authority within England.

Henry VIIIs 6th Parliament closes

The Ecclesiastical Licences Act replaces papal dispensations with licences granted under royal authority.

Henry VIII is authorised to determine the succession further by letters patent or by will.

The Act confirms Mary remains excluded from the succession alongside Elizabeth.

The Act declares Elizabeth illegitimate and removes her from the line of succession.

The Second Succession Act receives royal assent after the fall and execution of Anne Boleyn.

The Second Succession Act removes both Mary and Elizabeth from the succession after Anne Boleyn's fall.

The succession is vested in any legitimate children Henry VIII may have by Jane Seymour or a later wife.

Death of Henry Fitzroy

Prohibited to exercise or defend papal authority, under penalty of praemunire

Cromwell issues royal injunctions to enforce obedience to the king's supremacy in parish life.

Leaders of the Lincolnshire Rising are executed after the royal government restores control.

Rebels occupy Lincoln and demand an end to religious innovations, taxation and the dissolution of monasteries.

Rebels gather in the East Riding and the rising spreads beyond its first Yorkshire centres.

Pontefract Castle becomes a major centre of the northern rebellion against Henry VIII's religious policies.

Pontefract Castle becomes a major centre of the northern rebellion against the Crown.

Robert Aske leads the northern rebels into York as the movement gathers wider support.

Henry authorised Norfolk to promise a general pardon and a Parliament to be held at York within a year, as well as a reprieve for the abbeys until the Parliament had met

Beginning of the rebellion led by Robert Aske, engulfs the north of England

The Lincolnshire Rising begins at Louth in protest against religious change and royal commissioners.

Death of William Tyndale, executed in the Low Countries

William Tyndale is executed in the Low Countries

Many people in northern England had disliked the way in which Henry VIII had cast off Catherine of Aragon, although her successor, Anne Boleyn, had been unpopular as Catherines replacement her execution is undermines the monarchy

The Pilgrimage of Grace begins in Yorkshire under Robert Aske after the failure of the Lincolnshire Rising.

The Pilgrimage of Grace begins in Yorkshire under Robert Aske against religious change and royal policy.

Many people in northern England had disliked the way in which Henry VIII had cast off Catherine of Aragon, although her successor, Anne Boleyn, had been unpopular as Catherine's replacement her execution undermines the monarchy

The Pilgrimage of Grace is a popular rising in York, Yorkshire during 1536, in protest against England's break with Rome and the Dissolution of the Monasteries, as well as other specific political, social and economic grievances.

The movement broke out on 13 October 1536, immediately following the failure of the Lincolnshire Rising, and at this point was the term Pilgrimage of Grace used.

The Lincolnshire Rising collapses after Henry VIII orders the rebels to disperse or face royal force.

Robert Aske leads the rebels into York as the movement becomes the largest rising of Henry VIII's reign.

Orders the arrest of the rebel leaders

The rebels set out demands including restoration of monasteries and removal of Cromwell and other royal councillors.

The rebels set out demands including restoration of monasteries and removal of Thomas Cromwell.

The Duke of Norfolk negotiates with the Pilgrimage of Grace rebels and offers a royal pardon.

The Duke of Norfolk negotiates with the rebels after their forces confront royal troops near Doncaster.

The Pilgrimage of Grace disperses after promises of pardon and a future parliament in the north.

The rebels disperse after promises of a royal pardon and a parliament to consider their grievances.

Jane Seymour announces that she is pregnant

The Poor Law is enacted

The Poor Law is enacted

The Poor Law is enacted

The Institution of a Christian Man sets out doctrine and instruction for the reformed royal church.

The King arrests Aske and several of the other leaders, such as Darcy, Constable, and Bigod, who were all convicted of treason and executed

Robert Aske visits Henry VIII's court after the rising and seeks fulfilment of the king's promises.

The King arrests Aske and several of the other leaders, such as Darcy, Constable, and Bigod, who were all convicted of treason and executed

A new rising takes place in Cumberland and Westmorland called Bigods Rebellion (which Aske attempted to prevent) under Sir Francis Bigod, of Settrington in the North Riding of Yorkshire

Minor riots in connection with the northern rebellion

Minor riots in connection with the northern rebellion

The King arrests Aske and several of the other leaders, such as Darcy, Constable, and Bigod, who were all convicted of treason and executed

Sir Francis Bigod launches a new rising after distrust grows over Henry VIII's promises to the north.

Bigod's attempt to seize Hull fails and the renewed northern rebellion loses momentum.

Execution of the Pilgrimage of Grace rebels

Executions of the Pilgrimage of Grace rebels. Execution of the Pilgrimage of Grace rebels

Executions of the Pilgrimage of Grace rebels

Execution of the Earl of Kildare & his 5 uncles for treason

Execution of the Earl of Kildare & his 5 uncles for treason

Execution of the Earl of Kildare & his 5 uncles for treason

Royal authority suppresses Bigod's Rebellion and ends the renewed northern rising.

Robert Aske and other northern leaders are arrested after renewed unrest gives Henry VIII grounds for reprisals.

Several northern rebels associated with Bigod's rising are executed after the renewed rebellion fails.

Death of Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland, who leaves all lands to the crown

Robert Aske, The leader of the Pilgrimage of Grace is executed

Robert Aske, The leader of the Pilgrimage of Grace is executed

Robert Aske is executed after Henry VIII punishes the leaders of the Pilgrimage of Grace.

Jane Seymour gives birth to Prince Edward, Henry VIII's only legitimate son to survive infancy.

Death of Jane Seymour from postnatal complications after the birth of Prince Edward.

Jane Seymour is buried at St George's Chapel, Windsor.

The King and Cromwell arrange with Lutheran princes to have detailed discussions on forming a political and religious alliance

The Pope calls upon all Christians to attack & destroy the English King

Henry VIII is seriously ill

The Lutherans send a joint delegation from various German cities, including a colleague of Martin Luther, Friedrich Myconius, the delegates arrive in England on 27 May 1538, after initial meetings with the King, Cromwell, and Cranmer, discussions on theological differences are transferred to Lambeth Palace under Cranmers chairmanship

The Kildares plan an uprising to place Gerald Fitzgerald on the throne of Ireland

The Kildares plan an uprising to place Gerald Fitzgerald on the throne of Ireland

When the Lutheran German delegates sent a letter to the King regarding three items that particularly worried them (compulsory clerical celibacy, the withholding of the chalice from the laity, and the maintenance of private masses for the dead), Tunstall intervenes for the King leading to a dimissal of the Germans concerns, they leave on 1 October having made no substantial achievements

Royal injunctions are issued ordering the cessation of superstitious worship & rituals. Destruction of shrines

Royal injunctions order an English Bible to be placed in every parish church.

Shares in the drafting of a proclamation giving Anabaptists and Sacramentaries ten days to get out of the country. Henry personally presides at the trial of John Lambert for denying the real presence

At the end of 1538, a proclamation is issued forbidding free discussion of the Sacrament and forbidding clerical marriage, on pain of death

Pope Paul III excommunicates Henry VIII after the break with Rome and rejection of papal authority.

Excommunicated by Pope Paul III

Henry becomes displeased with the results of the Six Articlles Act

Parliament passes the Six Articles reaffirming Catholic practices such as transubstantiation, clerical celibacy and the importance of confession to a priest and prescribed penalties if anyone denied them

The Six Articles Act passes Parliament at the end of June, forcing Latimer and Nicholas Shaxton to resign their dioceses given their outspoken opposition to the measure. Parliament passed the Six Articles reaffirming Catholic practices such as transubstantiation, clerical celibacy and the importance of confession to a priest and prescribed penalties if anyone denied them

Charles V & Francis I agree not to ally with England except by mutual agreement

Opening of Henry VIIIs 7th Parliament

The House of Lords creates a committee with a religious balance of conservatives and reformers to examine and determine doctrine

The Churches are ordered to display a copy of the English Bible. Tha Act of Six Articles of the Protestant faith is passed

The Churches are ordered to display a copy of the English Bible. Tha Act of Six Articles of the Protestant faith is passed

The Six Articles confirm the conservative interpretation of doctrines such as the real presence, clerical celibacy, and the necessity of auricular confession, the private confession of sins to a priest. The Duke of Norfolk notes that the Lords committee into religious doctrine had not agreed on anything and proposes that the Lords examine six doctrinal questions, which form the basis of the Six Articles

The Duke of Norfolk notes that the Lords committee into religious doctrine had not agreed on anything and proposes that the Lords examine six doctrinal questions, which form the basis of the Six Articles

The Six Articles confirm the conservative interpretation of doctrines such as the real presence, clerical celibacy, and the necessity of auricular confession, the private confession of sins to a priest

The Six Articles Act passes Parliament at the end of June, forcing Latimer and Nicholas Shaxton to resign their dioceses given their outspoken opposition to the measure

The Six Articles Act enforces conservative doctrine within the Church of England under royal supremacy.

The Act of Proclamations is passed

Lord Leonard Grey defeats the Kildare faction of ODonnell & ONeill

Lord Leonard Grey defeats the Kildare faction of ODonnell & ONeill

The Act of Proclamations is passed

The Bishops of Salisbury & Worcester resign

Henry becomes displeased with the results of the Six Articlles Act and its promulgators; the ever-loyal Cranmer and Cromwell are back in favour

Henry becomes displeased with the results of the Six Articlles Act and its promulgators; the ever-loyal Cranmer and Cromwell are back in favour

Cromwell oversees the talks and a marriage Treaty to Anne of Cleves is signed

Anne of Cleves arrives in Rochester

A royal court is established to collect clerical revenues formerly associated with papal finance.

Meets Anne of Cleves for the 1st time. Feels he has been tricked by Cromwell into marrying Anne of Cleves

Cromwell recommends an alliance with German Protestants against the Holy Roman Empire

Cromwell recommends an alliance with German Protestants against the Holy Roman Empire

Henry VIII marries Anne of Cleves, fourth wife of Henry VIII of England from 6 January 1540 to 9 July 1540

Marries Anne of Cleves, the daughter of the Duke of Cleves. Cromwell recommends an alliance with German Protestants against the Holy Roman Empire

Henry VIII has Cromwell arrested for his part played in the marriage to Anne of Cleves

Anne of Cleves is ordered to leave court

Parliament passes a bill of attainder against Thomas Cromwell after his fall from power.

Anne's betrothal to Lorraine & the non-consummation of the marriage are investigated. A formal trial into the marriage between Henry VIII & Anne of Cleves begins

The Statute of Wills is passed

Henry VIII seeks Anne of Cleves's formal consent for an inquiry into the validity of their marriage.

The Church marriage tribunal finds Henry VIII's marriage to Anne of Cleves invalid

Henry's marriage to Anne of Cleves is annulled after six moninth of marriage. Court decrees that Anne is not Queen & will be known as the sister of the King

The marriage between Henry VIII & Anne of Cleves is annulled on the grounds that it had never been consummated, Henry claimed that he had found his bride so unattractive that he could not bear to sleep with her

Henry VIIIs 7th Parliament closes

Thomas Cromwell is executed after losing Henry VIII's confidence following the Anne of Cleves marriage.

Marries Catherine Howard, 5th wife

The English Bible is ordered in every parish church

Cranmer hands Henry a letter accusing the Queen of living "most corruptly & sensually"

Orders the Northern levies over the Border but they are dispersed at Haddonrig

Orders the Northern levies over the Border but they are dispersed at Haddonrig

Wants to meet James IV but James does not appear & Henry claims the Scottish theone

Cromwells supporters are arrested, includes Thomas Wyatt & Sir Ralph Sadler

The Dublin Parliament passes the Crown of Ireland Act declaring Henry VIII King of Ireland.

Cranmer gives Henry VIII evidence alleging Catherine Howard's misconduct before and after her marriage.

Catherine Howard is placed under guard at Syon House after accusations of adultery and misconduct.

Catherine Howard is placed under house arrest for adultery

Thomas Culpeper is executed for treason, an alleged lover of Catherine Howard. Francis Dereham is executed for treason, an alleged lover of Catherine Howard

Thomas Culpeper is executed for treason, an alleged lover of Catherine Howard. Francis Dereham is executed for treason, an alleged lover of Catherine Howard

Assumes the title King of Ireland under legislation passed by the Irish Parliament, replacing the older title Lord of Ireland.

Henry VIII opens his eighth Parliament at Westminster, beginning a session dealing with major Tudor political and religious business.

Parliament passes the attainder condemning Catherine Howard and Jane Rochford; Henry VIII gives effect to the measure through royal assent.

Bristol gains city status in connection with the creation of the new cathedral diocese.

Creates the Diocese of Bristol, with the former Augustinian abbey church becoming Bristol Cathedral.

Benefits politically from the Scottish defeat and uses captured nobles to increase English pressure on Scotland.

Promotes a future marriage between Prince Edward and the infant Queen Mary, seeking a dynastic settlement favorable to England.

Allows captured Scottish nobles to return home under political conditions, seeking to turn prisoners from Solway Moss into supporters of English policy.

Supports legislation restricting unauthorized scripture reading by lower social ranks.

Releases Angus & 10 Lords captured at Solway Moss to secure a Scottish alliance. Agrees for Prince Edward to marry Mary Queen of Scots

Releases Angus & 10 Lords captured at Solway Moss to secure a Scottish alliance

A period of "rough wooing" is marked by a 2 day burning of Edinburgh

Authorizes the doctrinal statement commonly called the King's Book.

An Act forbids the laboring class to read scripture

The publication presents a conservative statement of official English religion.

The Prebendaries plot in Kent is supports grass-roots Reformation

The Prebendaries plot in Kent is supports grass-roots Reformation

An Act forbids the laboring class to read scripture

The Prebendaries plot in Kent is supports grass-roots Reformation

The Prebendaries plot in Kent is supports grass-roots Reformation

The Advancement of True Religion Act tightens control of religious reading.

A period of "rough wooing" is marked by a 2 day burning of Edinburgh

An Act forbids the laboring class to read scripture

A period of "rough wooing" is marked by a 2 day burning of Edinburgh

The Abbey & Holyrood are sacked. A period of "rough wooing" is marked by a 2 day burning of Edinburgh

The Abbey & Holyrood are sacked

An Act of Parliament extends all English law to Wales

Prepares for renewed war with France while also pursuing the Rough Wooing against Scotland.

Henry VIII proposes that Prince Edward should marry Mary, Queen of Scots, to unite the Tudor and Stuart lines.

Henry VIII seeks to marry Prince Edward to Mary, Queen of Scots, as a means of uniting the kingdoms.

An Anglo-Imperial alliance is completed against France

Completes an Anglo-Imperial alliance with Charles V against Francis I of France.

The agreement prepares coordinated pressure on Francis I.

Completes an alliance with Emperor Charles V against France.

Commits England to renewed conflict with Francis I.

Declares war on France so that he can win the French throne

Declares war on France as England joins the wider Habsburg-Valois conflict.

Declares war on France as part of his alliance with Charles V.

Opposition to the English marriage grows among Scots who fear domination by Henry VIII.

The treaty proposes marriage between Prince Edward and Mary Queen of Scots.

Henry VIII expects the Treaty of Greenwich to bring Scotland into a closer English political orbit.

The Treaty of Greenwich agrees peace and the future marriage of Prince Edward to Mary, Queen of Scots.

Agrees the Treaty of Greenwich with Scottish representatives.

The Treaty of Greenwich agrees peace and proposes the marriage of Prince Edward to Mary, Queen of Scots.

Henry VIII uses the treaty to seek a dynastic union between England and Scotland.

The Treaty of Greenwich is signed, proposing peace between England and Scotland.

The agreement seeks to end conflict after the Scottish defeat at Solway Moss.

The settlement is intended to bring Scotland into a closer English alliance after the death of James V.

The treaty arranges the future marriage of Prince Edward to Mary, Queen of Scots.

The treaty provides that Mary, Queen of Scots, will marry Henry VIII's son Edward when both are older.

Marries Catherine Parr, 6th wife, widow of Lord Latimer

Marries Catherine Parr at Hampton Court Palace.

Takes Catherine Parr as his sixth and final wife.

The pro-French and Catholic faction around Cardinal Beaton opposes the English marriage policy.

Regent Arran ratifies the Treaty of Greenwich before Scottish opposition to the English marriage hardens.

Regent Arran ratifies the Treaty of Greenwich before Scottish opposition to English influence grows.

Opposition to the treaty increases among Scots who fear domination by Henry VIII.

Mary, Queen of Scots, is crowned at Stirling as Scottish leaders seek to protect her from English pressure.

War is declared by Henry in an attempt to force the Scots to agree to a marriage between Edward and the infant queen, thereby creating a new alliance between Scotland and England

Henry VIII prepares war against Scotland after the rejection of the Greenwich marriage settlement.

War is declared by Henry in an attempt to force the Scots to agree to a marriage between Edward and the infant queen, thereby creating a new alliance between Scotland and England

Following it's break with Rome, England decided to attack Scotland, partly to destroy the Auld Alliance, and prevent Scotland being used as a springboard for future invasion by France.

The Rough Wooing is a war between Scotland and England.

partly to weaken Scotland, and partly to force Scotland to agree to a marriage alliance between its child Queen Mary and the English heir apparent Edward, son of King Henry VIII.

Following it's break with Rome, England decided to attack Scotland, partly to destroy the Auld Alliance, and prevent Scotland being used as a springboard for future invasion by France.

The Rough Wooing is a war between Scotland and England.

partly to weaken Scotland, and partly to force Scotland to agree to a marriage alliance between its child Queen Mary and the English heir apparent Edward, son of King Henry VIII.

English policy shifts from negotiation to coercion after Scotland refuses the Greenwich settlement.

Henry VIII treats Scotland's rejection of the Treaty of Greenwich as a breach of the marriage settlement.

The renewal of Scottish links with France strengthens Henry VIII's fear of a hostile northern frontier.

Following it's break with Rome, England decided to attack Scotland, partly to destroy the Auld Alliance, and prevent Scotland being used as a springboard for future invasion by France, partly to weaken Scotland, and partly to force Scotland to agree to a marriage alliance between its child Queen Mary and the English heir apparent Edward, son of King Henry VIII

The Rough Wooing is a war between Scotland and England

Prepares military action after Scotland rejects the marriage settlement.

Henry VIII treats Scotland's rejection of the treaty as justification for renewed war and the Rough Wooing.

The failed diplomacy develops into the conflict known as the Rough Wooing.

The Scottish Parliament rejects the Treaty of Greenwich and the proposed Edward and Mary marriage.

Scotland reverts to pro-French & Catholic policies after the escape of Cardinal Beaton

Turns increasingly toward coercion after the marriage treaty collapses.

The Scottish Parliament rejects the Treaty of Greenwich and the proposed marriage alliance with England.

The Scottish Parliament rejects the Treaty of Greenwich and the proposed Edward and Mary marriage.

The treaties of Greenwich are not ratified by Scotland

Receives news that Scotland has rejected the Greenwich settlement.

Henry VIII cultivates Scottish nobles willing to support the English marriage alliance.

Charles V comes to terms with Francis I without consulting his English ally

Henry invades France, carried in a litter at the head of an army of 40,000. Charles V comes to terms with Francis I, without consulting his English ally

Henry VIII is forced to retreat from France when Charles V & Francois I make peace

The invasions of 1544 and 1545 are led by Edward Seymour (Earl of Hertford; later Duke of Somerset)

Henry VIII supports assured Scots who promise to back the English marriage alliance and oppose the French faction.

The 3rd Act of Succession restores Mary & Elizabeth to the succession after Edward

Under the 3rd Act of Succession a Regency Council will be established if Henry dies during Edward's minority

Henry VIII is forced to retreat from France when Charles V & Francois I make peace

The 3rd Act of Succession restores Mary & Elizabeth to the succession after Edward. A Regency Council will be established if Henry dies during Edward's minority

Henry burns Edinburgh in revenge for the annullment of the Treaty of Greenwich

Sends an armada to the Firth of Forth

Henry burns Edinburgh in revenge for the annullment of the Treaty of Greenwich

Forces of Regent Arran defeat supporters of Lennox and Glencairn who favour the English marriage policy.

Henry VIII issues instructions blaming Cardinal Beaton and Scottish opponents of the marriage alliance.

Henry VIIIs Eighth Parliament closes. Delivers a speech in Parliament for religious unity & ends the Parliamentary session

Parliament confirms Henry VIII's royal style including King of Ireland, Defender of the Faith and Supreme Head of the Church of England and Ireland.

Parliament confirms Henry VIII's style as Defender of the Faith and Supreme Head of the Church of England and Ireland.

The King's Style Act makes it treason to attempt to deprive Henry VIII of his royal titles and religious style.

Elizabeth is restored to the line of succession after Mary, without reversing her illegitimacy.

Mary is restored to the line of succession after Edward, without reversing her illegitimacy.

The Act places Prince Edward first in the line of succession as Henry VIII's male heir.

The Third Succession Act receives royal assent, revising the Tudor succession settlement.

The Treason Act allows treasons committed outside the king's dominions to be tried within England.

Edward Seymour, Lord Hertford, gathers English forces for the invasion of southern Scotland.

The Privy Council issues instructions for Hertford's punitive expedition against Scotland.

Holyrood Abbey and nearby buildings suffer destruction during Hertford's raid.

The destruction of Edinburgh becomes one of the most notorious actions of Henry VIII's Rough Wooing.

The raid is intended to punish Scotland for rejecting the Treaty of Greenwich and the proposed Edward and Mary marriage.

Holyrood Abbey and buildings around the abbey are damaged during Hertford's raid.

The invasion is designed to intimidate Scottish political leaders and weaken resistance to English terms.

Hertford's army lands at Leith during the punitive expedition ordered by Henry VIII.

Edward Seymour, Earl of Hertford, lands at Leith with an English expeditionary force during the Rough Wooing.

Hertford's expedition lands at Leith to punish Scotland for rejecting Henry VIII's marriage policy.

Major hostilities begin with an attack on Edinburgh, led by the Earl of Hertford and Viscount Lisle

English forces take Leith as the expedition advances toward Edinburgh.

English forces sack and burn Edinburgh as part of Henry VIII's Rough Wooing policy.

Edward Seymour, Earl of Hertford, sacks and burns Edinburgh during the Rough Wooing.

English forces sack and burn Edinburgh during the Rough Wooing.

The burning of Edinburgh is intended to force Scotland to accept the Edward and Mary marriage.

English forces gather in the Pale of Calais for a two-pronged campaign against France.

Orders Norfolk toward Montreuil and Suffolk toward Boulogne during the French campaign.

Norfolk's army begins operations against Montreuil but fails to take the town.

Henry joins his troops in Calais

Henry VIII crosses the Channel with an invasion force during the renewed war against France.

The Duke of Suffolk begins the English siege of Boulogne-sur-Mer.

English artillery bombards Boulogne as Henry VIII takes personal command of the siege.

Henry VIII leaves France after ordering Boulogne to be held against French counter-attack.

The French garrison agrees to surrender after English mining and bombardment breach the defences.

Boulogne falls to Henry VIII and becomes an English possession on the French coast.

Henry VIII besieges & takes Boulogne-sur-Mer, his only success in the French campaign

Henry VIII besieges & takes Boulogne-sur-Mer, his only success in the French campaign

Henry VIII besieges & takes Boulogne-sur-Mer, his only success in the French campaign

Charles V makes separate peace with France, leaving Henry VIII isolated in the war.

A French assault nearly retakes Boulogne but is repulsed by the English garrison.

The troops of Mary of Guise & the Earl of Arran make a stand against the English

The troops of Mary of Guise & the Earl of Arran make a stand against the English

English commanders strengthen frontier positions to maintain pressure on Scotland.

English campaigns in Scotland continue under Edward Seymour, Earl of Hertford, during the Rough Wooing.

The continuing invasion reflects Henry VIII's aim to break the Auld Alliance and impose the Edward and Mary marriage.

English border warfare continues as Henry VIII tries to force Scotland to accept the Edward and Mary marriage.

English engineers and labourers work to strengthen Boulogne as a fortified continental possession.

English troops damage Melrose Abbey during raids into the Scottish Borders before Ancrum Moor.

Scottish forces defeat an English army at Ancrum Moor during the Rough Wooing.

Scottish forces defeat an English raiding army during the Rough Wooing.

The battle reverses English momentum in the Scottish Borders during Henry VIII's Rough Wooing.

The English defeat at Ancrum Moor weakens Henry VIII's attempt to force the Edward and Mary marriage alliance.

The French fleet fails to force a decisive landing despite its strength and withdraws from the Solent campaign.

The battle becomes associated with the loss of the Mary Rose and the failure of the French invasion attempt.

A French fleet attempts to invade England to divert Henry VIII from Boulogne-sur-Mer

A large French fleet enters the Solent during an attempted invasion of England.

A French fleet threatens England and lands forces on the Isle of Wight during the campaign.

A large French fleet enters the Solent during an attempted invasion of England.

The French fleet confronts English naval forces in the Solent during the attempted invasion.

Henry VIII observes the naval campaign from the Portsmouth area as the French fleet threatens the coast.

English and French naval forces fight in the Solent during the French invasion attempt.

John Dudley commands the English fleet during the naval battle against the French in the Solent.

The Mary Rose sinks during the naval fighting against the French fleet in the Solent.

The Mary Rose sinks during the Battle of the Solent with heavy loss of life.

The Mary Rose sinks near Portsmouth during action against the French fleet.

Mary Rose heeled sharply during the Solent action, allowing seawater to enter through open lower gunports before the ship sank rapidly.

French forces land on the Isle of Wight after the naval fighting in the Solent.

The Earl of Hertford leads renewed English operations on the Scottish Borders during the Rough Wooing.

Opening of Henry VIIIs 9th Parliament

Arrested for advocating that his father become Regent after Henry VIII's death

The Navy Board is founded to administer the Navy

The Navy Board is founded to administer the Navy

The war remains unresolved at Henry VIII's death, with England still seeking to impose the marriage alliance on Scotland.

Henry VIII's will confirms the 3rd Act of Succession

Suspects sacramentarianism & launches an investigation. Catherine submits to her husbands will & the inquiry ends

The French recapture Boulogne-sur-Mer

Negotiations resume as England and France seek to end the costly war over Boulogne.

Cardinal Beaton is assassinated by Protestant lairds hostile to his pro-French and anti-English policy.

Has Beaton assassinated by Fife Protestants who oppose his pro-French policy

Seymour captures Edinburgh (1544) and Cardinal Beaton is murdered 29 May 1546, but the English are unable to reduce Scotland to obedience

Seymour captures Edinburgh (1544) and Cardinal Beaton is murdered 29 May 1546, but the English are unable to reduce Scotland to obedience

The Castilians hold St Andrews Castle and seek English support after the killing of Cardinal Beaton.

Ends 2 yrs of conflict between Henry VIII & Francois I

The Anglo-French peace Treaty gives England control of Boulogne-sur-Mer for 8 years

The Anglo-French peace treaty leaves England in control of Boulogne-sur-Mer for eight years.

The peace settlement provides that Boulogne will later be returned to France for a large payment.

The Treaty of Camp ends the war and allows England to retain Boulogne temporarily.

The Anglo-French peace Treaty gives England control of Boulogne-sur-Mer for 8 years

Anne Askew is burnt at Smithfield for heresy

Anne Askew is burnt at Smithfield for heresy

After the arrests of Norfolk & Surrey Henry ousts them from the Regency Council

The Regency Council will rule by majority, there is no provision for a Protector

The Regency Council will rule by majority, there is no provision for a Protector

Henry VIII revises his will, naming Edward, Mary and Elizabeth in the succession and providing a council for Edward's minority.

Henry VIII revises his will to confirm Edward, Mary and Elizabeth in the succession.

The succession provisions follow the Third Succession Act and place Edward first in line.

The will names a council to govern during Prince Edward's minority.

Henry VIII's will is finalised before his death and later used to govern the succession.

Henry VIII's will uses statutory authority to confirm Edward, Mary and Elizabeth in the Tudor succession.

Informed by Anthony Denny that he is "not like to live", he refuses to believe it

Death of Henry VIII at Whitehall Palace.

The will takes effect after Henry VIII dies, leaving the Crown to Edward VI under a regency council.

News of Henry VIII's death is publicly released after being kept secret for three days.

Henry VIIIs 9th Parliament closes, final Parliament of reign

Accidentally destroyed by fire

Henry Grace à Dieu, also called Great Harry, was accidentally destroyed by fire at Woolwich on 25 August 1553.