Birth of Henry VIII
Birth of Henry VIII, son of Henry VII & Elizabeth of York
Historical biography timeline
Explore a static chronology of 934 World History Database records for Henry VIII. The page is generated from the same biography records used by the searchable database, making important life events directly crawlable and readable.
Life and historical importance
King of England from 1509 to 1547, Henry VIII is best known for the English Reformation and his six marriages. His break with papal authority, royal supremacy over the Church and dissolution of the monasteries transformed religion, government and landholding.
Editorial overview by World History Database. The chronology below is generated from the site's structured biography records.
Chronology
Records are ordered by year, month and day where dates are available. The wording below comes from the World History Database biography collection.
Birth of Henry VIII
Birth of Henry VIII, son of Henry VII & Elizabeth of York
Christening
Christened in the Church of the Observant Friars
Lieutenant
Appointed Lieutenant General of Ireland
Marshal
Appointed Marshal of England
Peerage
Created Duke of York
Warden
Appointed Warden of the Cinque Ports
Death of Henry VIII
Death of Prince Arthur, Henry becomes heir to the throne
Succession
Prince Arthur dies & Henry becomes heir to the throne
Marriage
Catherine of Aragon is betrothed to Henry VIII
Succession
Pope Julius grants dispensation for Henry to marry Catherine
Marriage
"If a man shall take his brothers wife, it is impurity..they shall be childless"
Peerage
Created Duke of Cornwall
Succession
Created Prince of Wales.
Marriage
Henry VIII repudiates his betrothal to Catherine of Aragon
Accession
Accedes to the throne on the day of the death of his father Henry VII
Succession
Succeeds as King of England after the death of Henry VII.
Coronation
Rides to the Tower with an escort led John de Vere with fears of unrest
Arrest of Richard Empson and Edmund Dudley
Richard Empson & Edmund Dudley are scapegoats for Henry VIIs ministers extortion
Arrest of Richard Empson and Edmund Dudley
Empson & Dudley are scapegoats for the extortion of Henry VIIs ministers
Alliance England and Spain
Henry's marriage to Catherine of Aragon re-allies England with Spain
Marriage
Marries Catherine of Aragon, his dead brothers widow, daughter of Ferdinand II
Coronation
Followed by a banquet in Westminster hall, "greater than any Caesar had known". Crowned at Westminster
Informs Ferdinand that Queen Catherine is pregnant
Informs Ferdinand that Queen Catherine is pregnant
Assizes
Special assizes to redress grievances are abolished
Parliament
Parliament opens for the 1st time during Henrys reign. Opens Parliament, 21 Jaunuary-21 February
Death of Henry VIII
Birth of a stillborn daughter
Reform of Parliament
Parliament grants Henry VIII subsidies, tonnage, poundage & wool duties for life
Parliament
Henry VIIIs 1st Parliament closes
Death of Henry VIII
Catherine gives birth to her 1st child but it is born dead
Execution
Executed for "constructive treason". A useful scapegoat for Government financial irregularities
Treason
Executed for "constructive treason"
Death of Henry VIII
Really executed as a scapegoat for financial irregularities. Executed for "constructive treason" & preventing the King from removing him from power
Execution
Really executed as a scapegoat for financial irregularities. Executed for "constructive treason" & preventing the King from removing him from power
Treason
Executed for "constructive treason" & preventing the King from removing him from power
Birth of Henry of Richmond
Birth of Henry of Richmond, son of Henry VIII
Birth of son
First Son, born at Richmond Palace, the Duke of Cornwall
Birth of who lives for only 52 days
Has a son who lives for only 52 days
Succession
Has a son who lives for only 52 days
Death of Henry VIII
Henry, Duke of Cornwall, the first surviving child of Catherine and Henry, dies after seven weeks.
Death of Henry VIII
Death of Henry, Duke of Cornwall, Henry VIII's first son.
Tournament at Greenwich
Holds celebrations at Greenwich after the birth of Prince Henry.
Alliance England, Spain, the Pope and Venice
Council & Parliament endorse an alliance between England, Spain, the Pope & Venice
Alliance Henry VIII and Holy League
The Holy League Alliance is signed in Rome. England joins the Holy League against Louis XII of France, formed by Pope Julius II
Invasion of Gascony
Agrees to Ferdinands suggestion to invade Gascony
Holy League
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.
Holy League
He allied with Ferdinand II of Aragon and the Venetians against France.
Holy League
Henry VIII and Maximilian I also join the "Holy League of 1511."
Holy League
In November 1511, a council met for this objective at Pisa.
Holy League
Julius II joins the "Holy League of 1511".
Royal Armoury
Sets up a royal armory at Greenwich Palace
Parliament
Opening of Henry VIIIs 2nd Parliament
Declaration of War
Declares war on France
Capture of Navarre
The English arFerdinand captures Navarre
Invasion of Gascony
The English archers keep the French pinned down while Ferdinand captures Navarre
Invasion of Gascony
The invasion force sets sails but Henry does not accompany his army
Capture of Tournai
Atter victory at the Battle of the Spurs Henry VIII is able to capture Tournai
Invasion of Gascony
While Henry remains at home his army becomes mutinous
Invasion of Gascony
The English army under Dorset returns home
Invasion of Gascony
Henry VIII wishes to recapture Bordeaux, lost 60 yrs before
Alliance Emperor Maximilian and England
Emperor Maximilian joins the Holy Alliance & agrees to invade France with England
Battle of Brest
The Regent, Englands chief ship is burnt
Birth of James V
Birth of James V, Henry VIII nephew through Queen Margaret
Capture of San Sebastian
Sends 7,000 to San Sebastian to help Spain capture Guiennre
Invasion of Aquitaine
An Anglo-Spanish campaign to capture Aquitaine is unsuccessful
Invasion of France
The English troops do not support Ferdinand, they refuse to obey orders & return home
Legislation
Act passed ordering wages to be paid in money for the production of woollen cloth
Legislation
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
Reform of Labour Law
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
Siege of San Sebastian
Sends 7,000 to San Sebastian to help Spain capture Guiennre
Alliance Henry VIII and the Burgundians
The Burgundians also agree to become mercenaries in Henrys invasion of France
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
Invasion of France
The Burgundians also agree to become mercenaries in Henrys invasion of France
Execution
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
Invasion of France
Sets out from Greenwich to Dover amid much pomp & ceremony
Invasion of France
Lands in Calais
Siege of Calais
Lands in Calais
Battle of Spurs
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
Siege of Therouanne
Henry VIII lays siege to Therouanne & with a single cavalry charge manages to disperse the French
Battle of Brest
An English fleet lays siege to Brest
Siege of Brest
An English fleet lays siege to Brest
Battle of Flodden
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
Battle of Flodden
James V succeeeds to the Scots throne & peace is restored
Capture of Tournai
Captures Tournai, the richest city in north east France
Invasion of France
Returns to England from Calais as the conqueror of both the French & the Scots
Invasion of France
Reunited with Queen Catherine at Richmond
Invasion of France
Signs a Treaty with Spain & the Hapsburgs to invade France in the summer of 1514
Marriage
Agrees that his sister should marry Emperor Maximilian's grandson, Charles of Castille
Treaty of Lille
Signs a Treaty with Spain & the Hapsburgs to invade France in the summer of 1514
Birth of second son
Birth of Second son at Richmond Palace, the Duke of Cornwall, who dies in the same month
Death of Henry VIII
Death of Second son who dies in the month of his birth
Health of Henry VIII
Suffers from smallpox
Battle of Brest
Decides after the Battle of Brest to construct Woolwich Docks to build more ships
Deptford Docks
Henry VIII decides after the Battle of Brest to construct Deptford Docks to build more ships
Invasion of England
Appoints Surrey to defend England from the Scots while Henry leads an Army in France
Invasion of England
The Scots help their French allies by invading England & crossing the River Tweed
Invasion of France
Wolsey hires a Swiss mercenary army & invades Burgundy
Miscarriage
Catherine's 3rd pregnancy ends in miscarriage
Peace
Ferdinand II & the Venetians desert Henry VIII & the Pope & make peace with France
Woolwich Docks
Decides after the Battle of Brest to construct Woolwich Docks to build more ships
Marriage
Sends letters to Margaret of Austria about Marys wedding to the Prince of Castille
Dissolution of Parliament
Henry VIIIs 2nd Parliament closes
Diplomatic Mission to London
Pope Leo X sends an envoy to Henry to ask him to make peace with France
Treaty of St Germain-en-Laye
Louis XII cedes Touraine & pays Henry 1 million francs not to claim the French throne
Dynastic Marriage Negotiations at Wansted
Mary repudiates her marriage contract to the Prince of Castille during a ceremony
Marriage
Mary repudiates her marriage contract to the Prince of Castille during a ceremony
Marriage
Henry VIII's sister Mary marries Archibald Douglas, 6th Earl of Angus
Rule of Tournai
Wolsey negotiates & gains Tournai under the Treaty of St Germain-en-Laye
Peace Treaty at London
France & England are officially at peace after a peace Treaty is signed
Peace
Peace between England & Fance is declared after the defection of Henrys allies
Cardinal
Asks Pope Leo in a letter to make Wolsey a Cardinal
Report on the Anglo-French peace to the Pope
Reports the Anglo-French peace to the Pope
Marriage
Marries Louis of France at a proxy wedding. Attended on Louis behalf by the Duke of Longueville
Dynastic Marriage Negotiations at London
Louis proposes peace & signs a contract to marry Henrys sister Princess Mary
Marriage
Mary Tudor, younger sister of Henry VIII, marries Louis XII
Birth of a stillborn son
Birth of a stillborn son
Alliance Holy League
Ferdinand & the Emperor Maximilian leave the Holy League & make peace with France
Great Harry
The Henry Grace a Dieu, "Great Harry",
Launch
Launched at Erith, at over 1,000 tons the largest warship in the world
Marriage
Sends letters to Margaret of Austria about Marys wedding to the Prince of Castille. Offers his sister Mary as a bride to Louis XII
Peace
Secures double the anual tribute paid by France to Henry VII. It is agreed that Henrys sister, Mary, will marry Louis XII
Royal Dockyard
Charters trinity House in Deptford, site of the new Royal naval dockyard
Parliament
Opening of Henry VIIIs 3rd Parliament
Marriage
Mary secretly marries Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk
Dissolution of Parliament
Henry VIIIs 3rd Parliament closes
Declaration of Baynard Castle
The "Kings of England in times past have never had any superior but God alone"
Legislation
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
Marriage
Mary marries Brandon, Duke of Suffolk, in France without Henry VIII's permission
Reform of Labour Law
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
Plague
Henry travels regularly to stay ahead of the plague
Royal College
Grants a Charter to establish the Royal College of Physicians
Collective Aid Commitment
Accepts the principle that treaty members should combine against a power that breaks the universal peace.
Treaty of London
Approves the Anglo-French Treaty of Universal Peace, intended to form a wider European non-aggression and collective-security league.
Treaty of Universal Peace
Approves the Anglo-French treaty that becomes the foundation of Wolsey's wider European peace league.
Declaration of Peace
A "Treaty of Universal & Perpetual Peace" is signed by England, France & the Papacy
Oath to Treaty
Publicly swears to observe the Treaty of London during ceremonies at St Pauls Cathedral.
Treaty of Universal & Perpetual Peace
A "Treaty of Universal & Perpetual Peace" is signed by England, France & the Papacy
Marriage Settlement
Approves the separate marriage agreement betrothing Princess Mary to the infant French Dauphin Francis.
Rule of Tournai
A related agreement provides for Tournai to be restored to France in return for substantial payments to Henry VIII.
Tournai Settlement
Agrees to restore Tournai to France under separate arrangements closely connected with the London peace settlement.
Marriage
Henry's 3 year old daughter Mary is betrothed to Francis the Dauphin of France
Meeting with Francis I
Agrees in principle to a future personal meeting with Francis I to reinforce the new Anglo-French friendship.
European Prestige
Uses the universal peace project to increase England's diplomatic influence between France, Spain, the Empire and the papacy.
Restoration of Tournai
Agrees terms for Tournai to return to French control in return for substantial financial payments.
Birth of daughter
Catherine of Aragon gives birth to another stillborn daughter
Reform of Royal Household
Orders Wolsey to reform his household & make it more profitable
Birth of Henry Fitzroy
Birth of Henry Fitzroy, son of Elizabeth Blount & Henry VIII
Defence of the Seven Sacraments
Begins preparing a theological answer to Martin Luther that becomes the basis of the Defence of the Seven Sacraments.
Reform of Legal System
The powers of jurisdiction of the Council & tribunals are given to the Star Chamber
Tomb
Commissions Pietro Torrigiano to build him a majestic tomb
Marriage
Henry VIII attends the marriage of Thomas Boleyns daughter Mary to William Carey
Visit to Canterbury
Emperor Charles arrives in Dover & spends 3 days with Henry & Catherine in Canterbury
Meeting with With Francois
Arrives in Calais to meet with Francois
Field of Cloth of Gold
Meets Francis I at a summit, "the Field of Cloth of Gold", costs Henry œ15,000. Henry VIIIs jousting clothes alone cost œ3,000
Meeting with Francis I
Meets Francis I, the Feast of Corpus Christi
Field of Cloth of Gold
Henry VIII visits the French Queen, Claude
Foreign Policy Statement at London
Says farewell to Francis I
Meeting with Emperor Charles V
Meets Emperor Charles V
Alliance Agreement with France for 2 yrs
Henry VIII & Emperor Charles agree not to sign a new alliance with France for 2 yrs
Alliance Henry VIII and Emperor Charles and France for 2 yrs
Henry VIII & Emperor Charles agree not to sign a new alliance with France for 2 yrs
Meeting with Francis I
Meets Francis I after the Field of Cloth of Gold between Calais & Gravelines
Dynastic Marriage Negotiations
Discussions begin to marry Princes Mary to her cousin Emperor Charles V
Marriage
Discussions begin to marry Princes Mary to her cousin Emperor Charles V
Meeting with Francis I
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
Bill of Attainder
A bill of attainder against Edward Stafford, Duke of Buckingham, proceeds before his execution for treason.
Execution
The title of Buckingham is made forfeit. Execution of Edward Stafford the Duke of Buckingham for high treason
Treason
Execution of Edward Stafford the Duke of Buckingham for high treason
Breakdown of Treaty of London
Authorizes the Treaty of Bruges alliance with Charles V against France, undermining the universal peace system created in 1518.
Great Enterprise
Signs a secret Treaty with Charles V to launch a "great enterprise" against France
Secret Treaty of Bruges
Henry VIII commits England to an alliance with Charles V against France.
Treaty of Bruges
The Treaty of Bruges binds Henry VIII and Charles V to an anti-French alliance.
Treaty of Bruges
The agreement prepares the ground for Henry VIII's Great Enterprise against France.
Treaty of Bruges
The treaty commits England to war against France in support of the Habsburg position.
Treaty of Bruges
Wolsey helps arrange the treaty with Imperial representatives while England moves away from neutrality.
Treaty of Bruges
Signs a secret Treaty with Charles V to launch a "great enterprise" against France
Treaty of Charles V
Signs a secret Treaty with Charles V to launch a "great enterprise" against France
Treaty Signed at Bruges
Signs a secret Treaty with Charles V to launch a "great enterprise" against France
Alliance Great Britain and Austria and France
Wolsey represents England in negotiations with Margaret of Austria for the anti-French alliance.
Great Enterprise
English and Imperial representatives negotiate the secret Treaty of Bruges for war against France.
Great Enterprise
The agreement envisages Henry VIII invading northern France while Charles V attacks French interests elsewhere.
Treaty of Bruges
English and Imperial representatives negotiate the secret Treaty of Bruges against Francis I of France.
Treaty of Bruges
The Treaty of Bruges plans an Anglo-Imperial campaign against Francis I of France.
Great Enterprise
Henry VIII accepts plans for a major war with France in alliance with Charles V.
Award
Pope Leo X grants Henry VIII the title Fidei Defensor, Defender of the Faith.
Defender of the Faith
Pope Leo X grants Henry VIII the title Fidei Defensor, Defender of the Faith.
Award
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
Alliance Henry VIII and Emperor
Francis I invades Navarre & entrusts Wolsey to discuss an alliance with the Emperor
Defence of the Seven Sacraments
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
Defence of the Seven Sacraments
Publishes the Assertio Septem Sacramentorum, defending the seven sacraments against Luther.
Defence of the Seven Sacraments
Publication of "Defence of the Seven Sacraments", attacks Martin Luther
Defender of the Faith
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
Papal Dedication
Dedicates the Defence of the Seven Sacraments to Pope Leo X as a statement of Catholic orthodoxy.
Reformation, The
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
Royal Style
Henry VIII begins using Defender of the Faith as part of his royal style.
Alliance Henry VIII and Charles V
An alliance is agreed with Charles V against the French while a guest of Henry's
Alliance Henry VIII and Charles V
Henry VIII and Charles V confirm their anti-French alliance in the Treaty of Windsor.
Great Enterprise
The Treaty of Windsor postpones major joint action while keeping the Great Enterprise alive.
Treaty of Windsor
Signs a Treaty with Emperor Charles V. Confirms the anti-French alliance but postponing action until 1524
Great Enterprise
Surrey's raid tests English military pressure on France but achieves limited results.
Invasion of France
The Earl of Surrey leads an English expedition into Picardy as a preliminary campaign against France.
Diplomatic Plan at London
Vetoes a plan by Wolsey to attack French ports as too wrisky
Lutheran Controversy
Martin Luther replies angrily to Henry VIII's Defence of the Seven Sacraments.
Great Enterprise
Henry VIII prepares for the fuller invasion of France promised under the Anglo-Imperial alliance.
Parliament
Opening of Henry VIIIs 4th Parliament
Dissolution of Parliament
Henry VIIIs 4th Parliament closes
Invasion of France
English forces gather at Calais for the invasion of northern France.
Invasion of France
The Duke of Suffolk leads an English army through Picardy during the campaign against France.
Great Enterprise
English forces advance deep into northern France but fail to take Paris or force a decisive settlement.
Retreat
Suffolk's army withdraws toward Calais after the 1523 campaign loses momentum.
Alliance Henry VIII and Imperial and Bourbon interests
England coordinates with Imperial and Bourbon interests against Francis I.
Alliance league is formed comprising Henry VIII, the Habsburgs and the Bourbons
A league is formed comprising Henry VIII, the Habsburgs & the Bourbons
Attainment
An Act of Attainder is passed against the Edward, Duke of Buckingham
Defender of the Faith
Thomas More answers Luther in defence of Henry VIII's title and anti-Lutheran position.
Invasion of France
Suffolk leads an 11,000 expedition into France
Invasion of France
Suffolk crosses the Somme & threatens Paris but is forced to retreat
Reform of Church-State Relations
Act for the Pardon of the Clergy, the Clergy are forced to submit to Royal Supremacy
Reform of Government
Worsteds woven in Norwich must be dyed anywhere except Norwich
Siege of Paris
Suffolk crosses the Somme & threatens Paris but is forced to retreat
Great Enterprise
Henry VIII and Wolsey continue planning a renewed invasion of France with Imperial support.
War Finance
The cost of the Great Enterprise forces Wolsey to seek new ways of funding war with France.
Battle of Pavia
The capture of Francis I at Pavia encourages Henry VIII to revive plans for a conquest of France.
Battle of Pavia
The Habsburg victory at Pavia and capture of Francis I encourage Henry VIII to revive plans for war against France.
Battle of Pavia
Francis I is captured during the Battle of Pavia
Capture
Francis I is captured at Pavia, creating an opening for Henry VIII to press English claims in France.
Capture
Francis I is captured during the Battle of Pavia, creating an opportunity for Henry VIII's French ambitions.
Great Enterprise
Henry VIII and Wolsey revive the Great Enterprise after the French defeat at Pavia.
Invasion of France
The capture of Francis I at Pavia encourages Henry VIII to renew plans for an invasion of France.
Partition
Henry VIII and Wolsey consider schemes to partition France after the capture of Francis I at Pavia.
Invasion of France
Public rejoicing at St Paul's Cathedral marks Henry VIII's hope that Pavia will enable a renewed French campaign.
Peace Negotiations at Pavia
Henry breaks off peace negotiations with France after Francis Is capture at Pavia
Thanksgiving
After Francis I's capture Henry VIII orders public rejoicing and a mass at St Paul's Cathedral.
Amicable Grant
The Amicable Grant is promoted to fund a planned invasion of France after the capture of Francis I.
Invasion of France
The Amicable Grant is promoted to finance Henry VIII's proposed invasion of France.
Invasion of France
The Amicable Grant is raised to finance Henry VIII's planned invasion of France.
Reform of Church Governance
The Amicable Grant is raised to invade France, 6th of laity & 3rd of clergy income. Commissioners are appointed to collect the Amicable Grant
Taxation
The Amicable Grant seeks heavy payments from laity and clergy to finance Henry VIII's French war plans.
Amicable Grant
Wolsey attempts to raise a forced loan to fund Henry VIII's planned war against France.
Amicable Grant
Wolsey promotes the Amicable Grant to raise money for Henry VIII's revived Great Enterprise.
Amicable Grant
Wolsey proposes the Amicable Grant as a forced loan to finance Henry VIII's planned war against France.
Great Enterprise
Henry VIII orders renewed planning for the Great Enterprise after the French defeat at Pavia.
Taxation
The government seeks money without parliamentary grant, increasing resentment against Wolsey's fiscal policy.
Reform of Government
Henry renounces the Amicable Grant
Amicable Grant
Opposition to the Amicable Grant spreads through Essex and threatens wider disorder.
Amicable Grant
Resistance to the Amicable Grant appears in Kent as taxpayers object to the forced contribution.
Amicable Grant
Taxpayers in Suffolk refuse payment and resistance grows in the cloth-making districts.
Tax Resistance
Opposition to the Amicable Grant extends into Essex and weakens the government's attempt to collect the levy.
Tax Resistance
Resistance to the Amicable Grant spreads in Suffolk as taxpayers refuse the forced loan.
Great Enterprise
The Great Enterprise is abandoned after resistance to the Amicable Grant makes the proposed invasion unaffordable.
Invasion of France
Henry VIII abandons the proposed invasion after the Amicable Grant fails to produce the necessary war finance.
Lavenham Revolt
Thousands gather at Lavenham in protest against the Amicable Grant and the burden of royal taxation.
Lavenham Revolt
Thousands gather at Lavenham to oppose the Amicable Grant and the burden of royal taxation.
Pardon
Leaders of the Amicable Grant resistance submit before royal authority and are pardoned.
Pardon
Ringleaders of the Amicable Grant resistance are brought before Star Chamber and pardoned after submission.
Political Crisis
The failure of the Amicable Grant damages Wolsey's authority and exposes limits on extra-parliamentary taxation.
Reballion of danger of
The Duke of Suffolk confronts organised resistance to the levy and warns of the danger of rebellion.
Reballion of Rebels in Lavenham
The Duke of Suffolk confronts armed resistance to the Amicable Grant in the cloth districts of Suffolk.
Tax Resistance
Opposition to the Amicable Grant threatens armed disorder and undermines Henry VIII's French war plans.
Taxation
Henry VIII abandons the Amicable Grant after widespread opposition makes collection impossible.
Taxation
Henry VIII abandons the Amicable Grant after widespread resistance and the danger of rebellion.
Courtship
Henry VIII 1st meets Anne Boleyn, when Thomas Boleyn is created Viscount Rochford
Peerage
Makes his illegitimate son, Henry Fitzroy, Duke of Richmond
Treaty of the More
Henry VIII accepts peace with France after the failure of the Great Enterprise and the Amicable Grant.
Treaty of the More
Henry VIII agrees peace with France after the failure of the Amicable Grant and the Great Enterprise.
Treaty of the More
Peace with France follows the collapse of Henry VIII's attempt to finance a renewed French campaign.
Treaty of the More
The treaty redirects English policy from invasion planning toward diplomatic settlement with France.
Ordinance
Wolsey & Henry VIII draw up the "Eltham Ordinances" to reform the Household & Chamber
Plague
Spends a "still Christmas" away from the plague
Health of Henry VIII
Catherine refers to the "uncertainty of my life" after a bout of illness
Marriage
Henry VIII no longer sleeps with Catherine because she is past childbearing age
Purchase of Hampton Court
Henry VIII acquires Hampton Court from Thomas Wolesey
Courtship
Begins courting Anne Boleyn
League of Cognac
Becomes "protector" of the Holy League of Cognac against Charles V
Arrest of John Tyndale
Harry Phillips, an agent of Henry VIII, arrests John Tyndale for heresy
Arrest of John Tyndale
Sends agents abroad to try & arrest John Tyndale
Coronation
Sends 200 men to guard over James Vs coronation, invited by the Earl of Angus
Treaty of Eternal Peace
Receives an embassy from Paris to discuss a "Treaty of Eternal Peace"
Marriage
Asks the Pope for an annulment
Alliance Henry VIII and King Francis
Signs the Treaty of Westminster with King Francis against Emperor Charles V. Signs the Treaty of Westminster with Henry VIII against Emperor Charles V
Dynastic Marriage Negotiations at London
Arrangements are made for Princess Mary to marry Henry, Duke of Orleans
Treaty of Greenwich
The Treaty of Greenwich is signed with France
Marriage
Wolsey & Warham convene an ecclesiastical court to examine the King's marriage. An ecclesiastical court hears Henry's requests for an annulment
Marriage
Henry informs Catherine they must separate & he has asked the Pope for an annulment
Treaty of Amiens
The peace Treaty of Amiens between France & England is confirmed
Treaty of More
Signed with France after the Battle of Pavia. Enforced while Francis I is Charles Vs prisoner
Order of St Michael
Installed as Knight of the Order of St Michael by Anne de Montmorency
Marriage
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
Capture of England
Rome is captured by the Habsburgs ruining Henrys chances of an easy divorce
Capture of Rome
Rome is captured by the Habsburgs ruining Henry's chances of an easy divorce
King's Great Matter
Henry VIII seeks an annulment from Catherine of Aragon, beginning the crisis that leads to the break with Rome.
Marriage
Spring, has 1st doubts about his marriage to Catherine of Aragon. Beginning of "the King's Great Matter"
Treaty of Greenwich Henry VII & Francis I
After the Treaty of Greenwich Henry VII & Francis I exchange orders of chivalry
Marriage
Cardinal Campeggio is sent by the Pope to hear Henry's case for annulment
Dismissal
Strips Wolsey of his assets allowing him to retire to Esher & then to York
Hampton Court
In 10 years Henry VIII spends more than œ62,000 rebuilding and extending Hampton Court, worth approximately œ18 million
Marriage
Henry VIII asks the Pope for a dispensation for him to marry Anne Boleyn
Battle of Landriano
France is defeated & the Pope is forced to come to terms with Emperor Charles
Marriage
Henry claims he would Catherine back if the marriage was valid. Catherine pleads with Henry in public at the Parliament Chamber at Blackfriars
Marriage
Attends the divorce tribunal on final day but papal legates refer the divorce to Rome
Treaty of Cambrai
France & Spain make peace with Charles V, Henry is now totally isolated
Treaty of Cambrai
Accedes to the Treaty of Cambrai
Chancellor
Henry VIII appoints Thomas More Chancellor to unite his Council
Parliament
Opening of the Reformation Parliament. Opening of Henry VIIIs 5th Parliament
Reformation Parliament
The Reformation Parliament opens and becomes the legislative engine of Henry VIII's break with Rome.
Reformation, The
Opening of the Reformation Parliament
Constitution of England
Parliament meets to begin a programme of Church reform that lasts until 1536
Dissolution of Parliament
Parliament meets to begin a programme of Church reform that lasts until 1536
Reform of Parliament
Parliament meets to begin a programme of Church reform that lasts until 1536
Peerage
Creates Thomas Boleyn Earl of Wiltshire
Arrest of Thomas Wolsey
Has Wolsey arrested & sent to the Tower but he dies en route at Leicester Abbey
Dismissal
Has Wolsey dismissed
Divorce
Appoints Thomas More Chancellor to get Parliament to grant him a divorce
Marriage
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
Arrest of Thomas Wolsey
Has Thomas Wolsey arrested for high treason
Treason
Has Thomas Wolsey arrested for high treason
Death of Henry VIII
Death of Thomas Wolsey, en route to London to be executed for high treason
Treason
Death of Thomas Wolsey, en route to London to be executed for high treason
Collectanea Satis Copiosa
Royal scholars compile arguments claiming that English kings hold imperial authority within their own realm.
Constitution of England
Foxe & Cranmer justify the usurpation of papal jurisdiction. Foxe & Cranmer justify the supremacy of the sovereign
Great Bible
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
Great Council
Summons a Great Council to Hampton Court to request a divorce but is refused
Legislation
An act fixes the fee for apprenticeship to 2s 6d maximum
Marriage
Henry VIII summons a Great Council to Hampton Court to request a divorce but is refused
Marriage
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
Reform of Apprenticeship
An act fixes the fee for apprenticeship to 2s 6d maximum
Reform of Church-State Relations
Foxe & Cranmer justify the supremacy of the sovereign
Reformation, The
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
Supremacy
Foxe & Cranmer justify the supremacy of the sovereign
Convocation of Clergy
The Convocation of clergy agree to pay extra taxation
Taxation
The Convocation of clergy agree to pay extra taxation
Reform of Church-State Relations
Henry wants to be, "sole protector & supreme head of the English Church & clergy"
Reform of Parliament
Parliament makes Henry VIII Supreme Head of the Church in England
Royal Supremacy
Convocation recognises Henry VIII as supreme head of the English Church so far as the law of Christ allows.
Dissolution
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
Praemunire
The clergy accept a heavy fine after being charged with praemunire for recognising Wolsey's legatine authority.
Marriage
Henry VIII separates from Catherine & banishes her from court
Death of Henry VIII
Death of Thomas Wolsey, on the way to London to answer charges of treason
Treason
Death of Thomas Wolsey, on the way to London to answer charges of treason
Invasion of England
Henry raises extra money from the clergy because of threats of invasion from Charles V
Legislation
The Act of Appeals prevents the clergy from appealing to Rome. Act abolishing benefit of Clergy for those charged with murder or robbery
Reform of Church-State Relations
The Act of Appeals prevents the clergy from appealing to Rome. Act abolishing benefit of Clergy for those charged with murder or robbery
Taxation
Henry raises extra money from the clergy because of threats of invasion from Charles V
Supplication against the Ordinaries
The Commons present grievances against ecclesiastical courts and clerical lawmaking to Henry VIII.
Reformation, The
The King demands of Convocation that the Church renounce all authority to make laws
Convocation of Clergy
Thomas Cromwell prevents the Convocation of the Clergy
Reform of Church Governance
Thomas Cromwell prevents the Convocation of the Clergy. New canons require royal assent & existing ones will be vetted by a royal commission
Reformation, The
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
Submission of the Clergy
The clergy submit their lawmaking authority to the Crown and agree not to enact canons without royal licence.
Submission of the Clergy
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
Supremacy
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
Resignation of Thomas More
Thomas More resigns as Lord Chancellor after refusing to support Henry VIII's break with Rome.
Resignation of Thomas More
Thomas More resigns as Lord Chancellor after the Submission of the Clergy.
Peerage
Anne Boleyn is created Marquess of Pembroke.
Marriage
Henry VIII meets Francis I at Calais and seeks French support for his intended marriage to Anne Boleyn.
Marriage
Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn go through a private marriage ceremony after returning from Calais.
Visit to Calais
Henry VIII & Anne Boleyn visit Francis I of France in Calais
Alliance Agreement at London
Henry renews the Anglo-French alliance
Alliance Anglo-French alliance
Henry renews the Anglo-French alliance
Annates Act
Parliament begins restricting payments of annates to Rome as pressure increases on the papacy.
Dynastic Marriage Negotiations at London
Arranges a marriage with France to a relative of Clement VII to bargain with the Pope
Legislation
The Clergy is brought under control of the laws of England. Passes the Act for Submission, the clergy cannot appeal to Rome
Legislation
Act in Restraint of Annates, newly appointed Bishops make payments to the crown
Reform of Church Governance
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
Reform of Church-State Relations
The Clergy is brought under control of the laws of England. Passes the Act for Submission, the clergy cannot appeal to Rome
Reform of Treason Law
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
Vicar of God
Uses Pope Eleutherius letter addressing the King of Britain as "vicar of God"
Marriage
Henry VIII marries Anne Boleyn in a secret ceremony while his marriage to Catherine of Aragon is still disputed.
Marriage
Marries Anne Boleyn in secret
Pregnancy
Anne Boleyn's pregnancy gives urgency to Henry VIII's attempt to secure recognition of the marriage.
Archbishop
Appoints Thomas Cranmer Archbishop of Canterbury
Act in Restraint of Appeals
The Act gives final authority in matrimonial and ecclesiastical causes to courts within the king's realm.
Act in Restraint of Appeals
The Act in Restraint of Appeals declares England an empire and forbids appeals from English courts to Rome.
Dissolution
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
Execution
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
Legislation
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
Supremacy
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
Supremacy
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
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
Marriage
Cranmer declares Henry's marriage to Catherine null & void
Marriage Annulment
Cranmer declares Henry VIII's marriage to Catherine of Aragon invalid under English ecclesiastical authority.
Marriage Annulment
Cranmer declares Henry VIII's marriage to Catherine of Aragon null and void.
Marriage
Cranmer declares Henry VIII's marriage to Anne Boleyn valid.
Coronation Procession
Anne Boleyn processes from the Tower toward Westminster before her coronation.
Coronation
Thomas More refuses to attend the coronation of Anne Boleyn as Queen of England.
Coronation
Anne Boleyn is crowned Queen
Coronation
Anne Boleyn is crowned Queen of England at Westminster Abbey.
Excommunication
Excommunicated by Pope Clement VII. Clement VII declares the divorce from Catherine illegal. Clement VII declares Anne & Henry's children illegitimate
Excommunication
Pope Clement VII threatens Henry VIII with excommunication unless he abandons the marriage to Anne Boleyn.
Birth of Henry VIII
Anne Boleyn gives birth at Greenwich to the future Elizabeth I.
Succession
Anne Boleyn gives birth in Greenwich to the future Elizabeth I
Succession
Anne Boleyn gives birth to Princess Elizabeth, Henry VIII's daughter and future queen.
Arrest of Elizabeth Barton
Elizabeth Barton, the "Holy Maid of Kent", is arrested for treason
Treason
Elizabeth Barton, the "Holy Maid of Kent", is arrested for treason
Act Concerning Peters Pence and Dispensations
The Act Concerning Peters Pence and Dispensations outlaws the annual payment by landowners of one penny to the Pope
Act of First Fruits and Tenths
The Act of First Fruits and Tenths transfers the taxes on ecclesiastical income from the Pope to the Crown
Ambassador Recall
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
Arrest of Thomas Wyatt and Mark Smeaton
Thomas Wyatt is arrested for adultery with Anne Boleyn. Mark Smeaton is arrested for adultery with Anne Boleyn
Legislation
The Act in Restraint of Appeals reaches the statute books, it ends appeals to Rome
Legislation
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
Reform of Church-State Relations
The Act in Restraint of Appeals reaches the statute books, it ends appeals to Rome
Reformation, The
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
Reformation, The
The Act Concerning Peters Pence and Dispensations outlaws the annual payment by landowners of one penny to the Pope
Reformation, The
The Act of First Fruits and Tenths transfers the taxes on ecclesiastical income from the Pope to the Crown
Reformation, The
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
Marriage
Pope Clement VII declares Henry VIIIs marriage to Anne Boleyn null & void
Marriage
The Pope declares that Henry's marriage to Catherine is valid
Legislation
The Act of Succession is passed. Only children from Henrys marriage to Anne Boleyn are lawful heirs
Reform of Royal Succession
The Act of Succession is passed. Only children from Henrys marriage to Anne Boleyn are lawful heirs
Appointment of Bishops Act
The Appointment of Bishops Act transfers control of episcopal appointments from papal provision to royal procedures.
Peter's Pence Act
Parliament ends Peter's Pence and other payments formerly made from England to Rome.
Submission of Clergy Act
Parliament confirms the Submission of the Clergy and limits independent ecclesiastical legislation.
Succession Act
Parliament gives statutory force to Henry VIII's new dynastic settlement after the break with Catherine of Aragon.
Succession Act
Princess Elizabeth is recognised as heir presumptive after the birth of Anne Boleyn's daughter.
Succession Act
Princess Mary is excluded from the succession after the annulment of Henry's marriage to Catherine of Aragon.
Succession Act
The Act declares Henry VIII's marriage to Catherine of Aragon invalid for purposes of the royal succession.
Succession Act
The Act excludes Mary from the succession and recognises Elizabeth as heir presumptive.
Succession Act
The First Succession Act gives statutory force to Henry VIII's marriage settlement and succession through Anne Boleyn.
Succession Act
The First Succession Act receives royal assent, settling the succession on the children of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn.
Succession Act
The First Succession Act recognises Anne Boleyn as Henry VIII's lawful wife and her children as legitimate heirs.
Oath of Succession
Thomas More accepts Parliament's power over succession but refuses the oath because it rejects papal authority.
Oath of Succession
Thomas More is summoned to swear the oath recognising Henry VIII's marriage settlement and succession.
Arrest of Thomas More
Thomas More is arrested after refusing to swear the oath required by the succession settlement.
Arrest of Thomas More
Sir Thomas More is arrested for refusing to take the oath of succession
Imprisonment
Thomas More is imprisoned in the Tower of London after refusing the oath of succession.
Execution
Elizabeth Barton, the Nun of Kent, is executed for treason.
Arrest of John Fisher
John Fisher is arrested for refusing to take the oath of succession
Bill of Attainder
Parliament attaints Elizabeth Barton and her supporters after her prophecies against Henry VIII's marriage policy.
Dissolution
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
Peace
Henry VIII makes peace with James V
Kildare Rebellion
Thomas FitzGerald, known as Silken Thomas, renounces allegiance to Henry VIII at St Mary's Abbey in Dublin.
Silken Thomas Rebellion
Thomas FitzGerald publicly renounces allegiance to Henry VIII at St Mary's Abbey in Dublin.
Kildare Rebellion
Silken Thomas gathers supporters after rumours that his father, the Earl of Kildare, has been executed in England.
Murder
Archbishop John Alen is killed by followers of Silken Thomas during the Kildare rebellion.
Murder
Archbishop John Alen is killed by followers of Silken Thomas during the rebellion.
Birth of a stillborn
Birth of a stillborn child to Anne Boleyn
Kildare Rebellion
The rebels fail to seize Dublin Castle, the centre of English government in Ireland.
Reballion of Rebels in Dublin
Silken Thomas attacks Dublin Castle but fails to seize the centre of English government in Ireland.
Siege
The Kildare rebels maintain pressure around Dublin while royal forces struggle to restore order.
Siege
The Kildare rebels maintain pressure around Dublin while royal forces work to restore control.
Royal Army
English reinforcements are sent to Ireland to suppress the Kildare rebellion.
Act of Supremacy
Parliament recognises Henry VIII as Supreme Head on earth of the Church of England.
Act of Supremacy
The Act of Supremacy makes Henry VIII Supreme Head of the Church of England, changing the political meaning of Defender of the Faith.
Act of Supremacy
The Act of Supremacy recognises Henry VIII as Supreme Head on earth of the Church of England.
Church of England
The royal supremacy gives the English Crown jurisdiction over the national church.
First Fruits and Tenths Act
The First Fruits and Tenths Act diverts clerical revenues formerly linked to Rome to the English Crown.
Oath of Succession
Refusal to swear the succession oath becomes a grave political and religious offence.
Oath of Succession
Refusal to swear the succession oath is treated as treason against the king's authority.
Oath of Succession
The Act requires recognition of Anne Boleyn as Henry VIII's lawful wife and of her children as legitimate heirs.
Oath of Succession
The Oath to the Succession Act receives royal assent, requiring subjects to swear to the succession settlement.
Oath of Succession
The Oath to the Succession Act requires subjects to swear obedience to Henry VIII's succession settlement.
Oath of Succession
The Oath to the Succession Act requires subjects to swear to Henry VIII's succession settlement.
Treason
The Treasons Act receives royal assent and makes malicious denial of Henry VIII's supremacy punishable as high treason.
Treasons Act
The Act makes it treason to deny maliciously the king's royal supremacy and lawful titles.
Treasons Act
The Act makes resistance to the royal supremacy and succession settlement punishable as high treason.
Treasons Act
The Treasons Act makes malicious denial of the king's royal supremacy and titles punishable as high treason.
Treasons Act
The Treasons Act receives royal assent and creates new statutory offences of high treason.
Treasons Act
The Treasons Act receives royal assent, reinforcing the succession settlement by criminalising opposition to Henry's authority.
Constitution of England
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)
Dissolution
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
Dissolution
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).
Dissolution
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.
Imprisonment
Thomas More writes devotional works while imprisoned for refusing to accept the royal religious settlement.
Legislation
Abolition of Peters Pence & other Papal Taxes.
Legislation
Act for the Submission of the Clergy to the King's Majesty is passed.
Legislation
An Act is passed for the Submission of the Clergy.
Legislation
It becomes treason to deny royal titles or call the King a heretic or usurper.
Legislation
It becomes treason to rebel against royalty by words.
Legislation
The Act in Restraint of Annates is passed.
Legislation
The Convocation of the Clergy has its legislative powers curtailed.
Legislation
The King is to appoint Bishops & Abbots.
Legislation
The Treason Act is passed
Legislation
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
Legislation
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)
Reform of Church Governance
Act for the Submission of the Clergy to the King's Majesty is passed.
Reform of Church Governance
An Act is passed for the Submission of the Clergy.
Reform of Church Governance
The Convocation of the Clergy has its legislative powers curtailed.
Reform of Church Governance
The King is to appoint Bishops & Abbots.
Reform of Government
It becomes treason to rebel against royalty by words.
Reform of Government
The Act in Restraint of Annates is passed.
Reform of Royal Titles
It becomes treason to deny royal titles or call the King a heretic or usurper.
Reform of Taxation
Abolition of Peters Pence & other Papal Taxes.
Reform of Treason Law
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
Reformation, The
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.
Reformation, The
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
Reformation, The
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".
Reformation, The
Separates the Church from the Roman Catholic Church
Succession
The Succession Act recognises Anne Boleyn as Henry's lawful wife and her children as legitimate heirs.
Supremacy
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"
Supremacy
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.
Supremacy
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
Supremacy
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".
Supreme Head of 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"
Treason
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
Treason
The Treason Act is passed
Treasons Act
The Treasons Act comes into force and gives legal force to penalties against opponents of royal supremacy.
Treasons Act
The Treasons Act comes into force, increasing the danger for those who reject the king's supremacy.
Treasons Act
The Treasons Act comes into force, strengthening the legal penalties for opposition to royal supremacy.
Reballion of Rebels in Maynooth
Kildare is defeated at Maynooth Castle, County Kildare
Reballion of Rebels in Maynooth Castle
Kildare is defeated at Maynooth Castle, County Kildare
Maynooth
Sir William Skeffington captures Maynooth Castle, the chief stronghold of the Kildare rebellion.
Maynooth
Sir William Skeffington captures Maynooth Castle, the main stronghold of the Kildare rebellion.
Arrest of Clergy preaching papal supremacy
Cromwell orders the imprisonment of the Clergy preaching Papal supremacy
Constitution of England
Appointed Supreme Head of the Church
Execution
John Fisher is executed after refusing to accept Henry VIII's supremacy over the Church.
Execution
John Fisher, Bishop of Rochester, is executed
Supreme Head of Church of England
Appointed Supreme Head of the Church
Indictment
Thomas More is indicted for high treason under the legislation enforcing royal supremacy.
Sentence
Thomas More is sentenced to the traitor's death of hanging, drawing and quartering.
Trial
Richard Rich gives evidence that Thomas More denied Parliament's power to make Henry VIII head of the Church.
Trial
Thomas More argues that his silence should not be treated as treason against Henry VIII.
Trial
Thomas More is tried for high treason before a commission including Thomas Audley and the Duke of Norfolk.
Verdict
The jury finds Thomas More guilty of high treason after a brief deliberation.
Birth of a stillborn child
Birth of a stillborn child
Execution
Thomas More is beheaded at Tower Hill for refusing to accept Henry VIII's supremacy over the Church.
Execution
Sir Thomas More is executed
Execution
Thomas More is executed after refusing to accept the royal supremacy and succession oath.
Kildare Rebellion
Lord Leonard Grey strengthens royal control in Ireland after the collapse of rebel resistance.
Reballion of Kildare
Lord Leonard Grey arrives in Ireland to strengthen royal authority after the Kildare revolt.
Sentence
Henry VIII commutes Thomas More's sentence from hanging, drawing and quartering to beheading.
Result of Surrender of Silken Thomas
The failed Kildare rebellion ends with Silken Thomas in English custody.
Result of Surrender of Silken Thomas
The collapse of the Kildare rebellion leaves Silken Thomas in English hands and ends his armed resistance.
Surrender of Silken Thomas
Silken Thomas surrenders after the failure of the Kildare rebellion.
Surrender of Silken Thomas
Silken Thomas surrenders after the collapse of the Kildare rebellion.
Courtship
Henry VIII visits John Seymour & meets his daughter Jane
Imprisonment
Silken Thomas is sent as a prisoner to the Tower of London.
Imprisonment
Silken Thomas is sent to the Tower of London as a prisoner after his surrender.
Execution
Henry VIII commutes Fishers sentence of treason to beheading. Commutes Mores sentence of treason to beheading & permits Mores family to attend
Interrogation
Thomas Cromwell visits Thomas More in the Tower and urges him to accept the oath and royal supremacy.
Legislation
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
Marriage
Anne Boleyn remains queen while opposition to the royal marriage and succession settlement is punished.
Reformation, The
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
Reformation, The
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
Refusal
Thomas More continues to refuse the oath while avoiding an explicit public denial of Henry VIII's supremacy.
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
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. 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
Treason
Henry VIII commutes Fishers sentence of treason to beheading. Commutes Mores sentence of treason to beheading & permits Mores family to attend
Treason
Sanctuary is removed from persons accused of high treason under the expanded Tudor treason law.
Treason
The Act makes hostile speech against the king's title, marriage and succession punishable as high treason.
Valor Ecclesiasticus
The Crown surveys ecclesiastical wealth in England and Wales to assess church revenues under royal control.
Vice Regent
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
Vicegerent
Thomas Cromwell becomes the king's chief minister for enforcing royal supremacy over the Church.
Death of Henry VIII
Catherine of Aragon dies, removing Henry VIII's first wife from the marriage dispute.
Death of Henry VIII
Death of Catherine of Aragon, Henry & Anne's offspring can inherit the throne
Birth of a stillborn son
Birth of a stillborn son, Henry believes his marriage to Anne is damned
Burial
Catherine of Aragon is buried at Peterborough Abbey.
Miscarriage
Anne Boleyn miscarries a male child, weakening her position at court.
Pregnancy
Anne Boleyn miscarries a male child, weakening her position at court.
Reformation, The
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
Legislation
The Act of Suppression is passed
Reform of Government
The Act of Suppression is passed
Dissolution of Parliament
Henry VIIIs 5th Parliament closes
Dissolution of Lesser Monasteries Act
Parliament authorises the dissolution of smaller monasteries and transfers their property to the Crown.
Unification
Royal Assent is given to the bill uniting Wales & England
Divorce
commissions Cromwell to prepare the case for a divorce
Arrest of Mark Smeaton
Mark Smeaton is arrested during the investigation into allegations against Anne Boleyn.
Arrest of Mark Smeaton
Mark Smeaton is arrested for having an affair with Anne Boleyn
Court of Augmentations
The Court of Augmentations is created to manage monastic property taken into royal hands.
Arrest of Henry Norris
Henry Norris is arrested for having an affair with Anne Boleyn
Reform of Church Governance
Beginning of the reformation of the Church in Ireland
Arrest of Anne Boleyn
Anne Boleyn is arrested and taken to the Tower of London on charges of adultery, incest and treason.
Arrest of George Boleyn
George Boleyn is arrested with other men accused in the case against Anne Boleyn.
Arrest of George Boleyn and Anne Boleyn
George Boleyn is arrested for high treason. Anne Boleyn is imprisoned in the Tower of London
Treason
George Boleyn is arrested for high treason
Arrest of William Brereton and Francis Weston
William Brereton is arrested for high treason. Francis Weston is arrested for high treason
Treason
William Brereton is arrested for high treason. Francis Weston is arrested for high treason
Arrest of Thomas Wyatt and Richard Page
Thomas Wyatt is arrested for high treason. Richard Page is arrested for infidelities with Anne Boleyn
Treason
Thomas Wyatt is arrested for high treason
Treason
Anne Boleyn is indicted for high treason
Trial
Anne Boleyn is indicted for high treason
Trial
Anne Boleyn and George Boleyn are tried for high treason before a court of peers.
Trial
Found guilty & will be burned or beheaded according to Henry VIII's wishes
Bill of Attainder
Parliament passes an act of attainder against Anne Boleyn and those accused with her before her execution.
Execution
William Brereton is executed. Mark Smeaton is executed. Henry Norriss is executed. George Boleyn is executed. Francis Weston is executed
Execution
George Boleyn, Henry Norris, Francis Weston, William Brereton and Mark Smeaton are executed.
Marriage
Henry VIII's marriage to Anne Boleyn is declared invalid before her execution.
Marriage Annulment
Cranmer annuls Henry VIII's marriage to Anne Boleyn before her execution.
Death of Henry VIII
Has Anne Boleyn executed for high treason & adultery
Death of Henry VIII
Anne Boleyn is executed
Execution
Has Anne Boleyn executed for high treason & adultery
Execution
Anne Boleyn is executed by sword within the Tower of London.
Treason
Has Anne Boleyn executed for high treason & adultery
Marriage
Henry VIII is betrothed to Jane Seymour
Marriage
Marries Jane Seymour, at York Place
Parliament
Opening of Henry VIIIs 6th Parliament
Legislation
The Ten Articles of Protestant faith are passed
Legislation
The Ten Articles are passed
Reform of Church Governance
The Ten Articles of Protestant faith are passed
Bishop of Rome Act
Parliament extinguishes remaining claims of papal authority within England.
Dissolution of Parliament
Henry VIIIs 6th Parliament closes
Ecclesiastical Licences Act
The Ecclesiastical Licences Act replaces papal dispensations with licences granted under royal authority.
Second Succession Act
Henry VIII is authorised to determine the succession further by letters patent or by will.
Second Succession Act
The Act confirms Mary remains excluded from the succession alongside Elizabeth.
Second Succession Act
The Act declares Elizabeth illegitimate and removes her from the line of succession.
Second Succession Act
The Second Succession Act receives royal assent after the fall and execution of Anne Boleyn.
Second Succession Act
The Second Succession Act removes both Mary and Elizabeth from the succession after Anne Boleyn's fall.
Second Succession Act
The succession is vested in any legitimate children Henry VIII may have by Jane Seymour or a later wife.
Death of Henry VIII
Death of Henry Fitzroy
Reform of Church-State Relations
Prohibited to exercise or defend papal authority, under penalty of praemunire
Execution
The leader of the Pilrimage of Grace is executed
Legislation
The Act of Succession is passed
Legislation
The Act of Succession, section IX allows Henry to bestow the crown on his daughters
Reform of Royal Succession
The Act of Succession is passed
Succession
Mary & Elizabeth are bastardized, succession going to Jane Seymours son Edward VI
Ten Articles
The Ten Articles define official doctrine for the Church of England under Henry VIII's supremacy.
Royal Injunctions
Cromwell issues royal injunctions to enforce obedience to the king's supremacy in parish life.
Lincolnshire Rising
The Lincolnshire Rising begins at Louth in protest against religious change and royal commissioners.
Death of Henry VIII
Death of William Tyndale, executed in the Low Countries
Execution
William Tyndale is executed in the Low Countries
Execution
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
Pilgrimage of Grace
The Pilgrimage of Grace begins in Yorkshire under Robert Aske after the failure of the Lincolnshire Rising.
Pilgrimage of Grace
The Pilgrimage of Grace begins in Yorkshire under Robert Aske against religious change and royal policy.
Pilgrimage of Grace
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
Pilgrimage of Grace
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.
Pilgrimage of Grace
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.
Suppression
The Lincolnshire Rising collapses after Henry VIII orders the rebels to disperse or face royal force.
Pilgrimage of Grace
Robert Aske leads the rebels into York as the movement becomes the largest rising of Henry VIII's reign.
Execution
Leaders of the Lincolnshire Rising are executed after the royal government restores control.
Lincolnshire Rising
Rebels occupy Lincoln and demand an end to religious innovations, taxation and the dissolution of monasteries.
Pilgrimage of Grace
Rebels gather in the East Riding and the rising spreads beyond its first Yorkshire centres.
Pilgrimage of Grace
Pontefract Castle becomes a major centre of the northern rebellion against Henry VIII's religious policies.
Pilgrimage of Grace
Pontefract Castle becomes a major centre of the northern rebellion against the Crown.
Pilgrimage of Grace
Robert Aske leads the northern rebels into York as the movement gathers wider support.
Pilgrimage of Grace
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
Reballion of Robert Aske
Beginning of the rebellion led by Robert Aske, engulfs the north of England
Legislation
The Poor Law is enacted
Poor Law
The Poor Law is enacted
Reform of Poor Relief
The Poor Law is enacted
Arrest of Rebel leaders
Orders the arrest of the rebel leaders
Articles of Pontefract
The rebels set out demands including restoration of monasteries and removal of Cromwell and other royal councillors.
Articles of Pontefract
The rebels set out demands including restoration of monasteries and removal of Thomas Cromwell.
Negotiations
The Duke of Norfolk negotiates with the Pilgrimage of Grace rebels and offers a royal pardon.
Negotiations
The Duke of Norfolk negotiates with the rebels after their forces confront royal troops near Doncaster.
Pardon
The Pilgrimage of Grace disperses after promises of pardon and a future parliament in the north.
Pardon
The rebels disperse after promises of a royal pardon and a parliament to consider their grievances.
Pregnancy
Jane Seymour announces that she is pregnant
Act Against the Popes Authority
Parliament passes the Act against the Popes Authority, which removes the last part of papal authority still legal
Adultery
Cromwell convinces Henry Anne had committed incest with her brother
Arrest of George Boleyn
Lord George Rochford is arrested for adultery with Anne Boleyn, Anne's brother
Constitution of England
The Privy Council replaces the King's Council
Coronation
To pacify the rebels Jane joins Henry VIII on a tour of the north & is crowned in York
Dissolution
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
Legisation
Parliament passes the Act against the Popes Authority, which removes the last part of papal authority still legal
Legislation
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
Marriage
Offers to marry Madeleine the daughter of Francis I but is refused
Marriage
Parliament approves the marriage to Anne Boleyn & the break with Rome
Parliament completes the break with Rome
Parliament completes the break with Rome
Reballion of Rebels in York
To pacify the rebels Jane joins Henry VIII on a tour of the north & is crowned in York
Reform of Royal Succession
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
Reformation, The
Parliament passes the Act against the Popes Authority, which removes the last part of papal authority still legal
Trial
Found guilty of adultery with Anne Boleyn & condemned to die by beheading
Bigod's Rebellion
Sir Francis Bigod launches a new rising after distrust grows over Henry VIII's promises to the north.
Bigod's Rebellion
Bigod's attempt to seize Hull fails and the renewed northern rebellion loses momentum.
Execution
The King arrests Aske and several of the other leaders, such as Darcy, Constable, and Bigod, who were all convicted of treason and executed
Pilgrimage of Grace
Robert Aske visits Henry VIII's court after the rising and seeks fulfilment of the king's promises.
Pilgrimage of Grace
The King arrests Aske and several of the other leaders, such as Darcy, Constable, and Bigod, who were all convicted of treason and executed
Pilgrimage of Grace
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
Reballion of with the northern
Minor riots in connection with the northern rebellion
Treason
The King arrests Aske and several of the other leaders, such as Darcy, Constable, and Bigod, who were all convicted of treason and executed
Death of Henry VIII
Execution of the Earl of Kildare & his 5 uncles for treason
Execution
Execution of the Earl of Kildare & his 5 uncles for treason
Treason
Execution of the Earl of Kildare & his 5 uncles for treason
Suppression
Royal authority suppresses Bigod's Rebellion and ends the renewed northern rising.
Death of Henry VIII
Execution of the Pilgrimage of Grace rebels
Execution
Executions of the Pilgrimage of Grace rebels. Execution of the Pilgrimage of Grace rebels
Reballion of Grace
Executions of the Pilgrimage of Grace rebels
Arrest of Robert Aske and northern leaders
Robert Aske and other northern leaders are arrested after renewed unrest gives Henry VIII grounds for reprisals.
Execution
Several northern rebels associated with Bigod's rising are executed after the renewed rebellion fails.
Death of Henry VIII
Death of Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland, who leaves all lands to the crown
Execution
Robert Aske is executed after Henry VIII punishes the leaders of the Pilgrimage of Grace.
Death of Henry VIII
Robert Aske, The leader of the Pilgrimage of Grace is executed
Execution
Robert Aske, The leader of the Pilgrimage of Grace is executed
Birth of Henry VIII's only legitimate
Jane Seymour gives birth to Prince Edward, Henry VIII's only legitimate son to survive infancy.
Death of Henry VIII
Death of Jane Seymour from postnatal complications after the birth of Prince Edward.
Burial
Jane Seymour is buried at St George's Chapel, Windsor.
Bishops' Book
The Institution of a Christian Man sets out doctrine and instruction for the reformed royal church.
Visit to England on 27 May 1538
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
Health of Henry VIII
Henry VIII is seriously ill
Reballion of Kildares plan an
The Kildares plan an uprising to place Gerald Fitzgerald on the throne of Ireland
Diplomatic Correspondence
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
Reform of Government
Royal injunctions are issued ordering the cessation of superstitious worship & rituals. Destruction of shrines
Royal Injunctions
Royal injunctions order an English Bible to be placed in every parish church.
Reformation, The
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
Defender of the Faith
Pope Paul III excommunicates Henry VIII after the break with Rome and rejection of papal authority.
Excommunication
Excommunicated by Pope Paul III
Reformation, The
At the end of 1538, a proclamation is issued forbidding free discussion of the Sacrament and forbidding clerical marriage, on pain of death
Alliance Agreement
The King and Cromwell arrange with Lutheran princes to have detailed discussions on forming a political and religious alliance
Papal Bull
The Pope calls upon all Christians to attack & destroy the English King
Parliament
Opening of Henry VIIIs 7th Parliament
Reformation, The
The House of Lords creates a committee with a religious balance of conservatives and reformers to examine and determine doctrine
Legislation
The Churches are ordered to display a copy of the English Bible. Tha Act of Six Articles of the Protestant faith is passed
Reform of Bible Use
The Churches are ordered to display a copy of the English Bible. Tha Act of Six Articles of the Protestant faith is passed
Reformation, The
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
Six Articles, The
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
Six Articles, The
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
Six Articles Act
The Six Articles Act enforces conservative doctrine within the Church of England under royal supremacy.
Six Articles, The
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
Resignation of Bishops of Salisbury & Worcester
The Bishops of Salisbury & Worcester resign
Legislation
The Act of Proclamations is passed
Reballion of Rebels in Bellahoe
Lord Leonard Grey defeats the Kildare faction of ODonnell & ONeill
Reform of Royal Proclamations
The Act of Proclamations is passed
Reformation, The
Henry becomes displeased with the results of the Six Articlles Act and its promulgators; the ever-loyal Cranmer and Cromwell are back in favour
Six Articles, The
Henry becomes displeased with the results of the Six Articlles Act and its promulgators; the ever-loyal Cranmer and Cromwell are back in favour
Marriage
Cromwell oversees the talks and a marriage Treaty to Anne of Cleves is signed
Marriage
Anne of Cleves arrives in Rochester
Reformation, The
Henry becomes displeased with the results of the Six Articlles Act
Reformation, The
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
Six Articles, The
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
Treaty of Toledo
Charles V & Francis I agree not to ally with England except by mutual agreement
Marriage
Meets Anne of Cleves for the 1st time. Feels he has been tricked by Cromwell into marrying Anne of Cleves
Alliance Agreement with German Protestants against the Holy Roman
Cromwell recommends an alliance with German Protestants against the Holy Roman Empire
Alliance Henry VIII and German Protestants
Cromwell recommends an alliance with German Protestants against the Holy Roman Empire
Marriage
Henry VIII marries Anne of Cleves, fourth wife of Henry VIII of England from 6 January 1540 to 9 July 1540
Marriage
Marries Anne of Cleves, the daughter of the Duke of Cleves. Cromwell recommends an alliance with German Protestants against the Holy Roman Empire
Arrest of Thomas Cromwell
Henry VIII has Cromwell arrested for his part played in the marriage to Anne of Cleves
Marriage
Anne of Cleves is ordered to leave court
Bill of Attainder
Parliament passes a bill of attainder against Thomas Cromwell after his fall from power.
Marriage
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
Marriage
Henry VIII seeks Anne of Cleves's formal consent for an inquiry into the validity of their marriage.
Marriage
The Church marriage tribunal finds Henry VIII's marriage to Anne of Cleves invalid
Marriage
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
Marriage
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
Dissolution of Parliament
Henry VIIIs 7th Parliament closes
Execution
Thomas Cromwell is executed after losing Henry VIII's confidence following the Anne of Cleves marriage.
Marriage
Marries Catherine Howard, 5th wife
Reform of Bible Use
The English Bible is ordered in every parish church
Reform of Inheritance Law
The Statute of Wills is passed
Court of First Fruits and Tenths
A royal court is established to collect clerical revenues formerly associated with papal finance.
Arrest of Thomas Wyatt and Ralph Sadler
Cromwells supporters are arrested, includes Thomas Wyatt & Sir Ralph Sadler
Rule of Ireland
The Dublin Parliament passes the Crown of Ireland Act declaring Henry VIII King of Ireland.
Investigation
Cranmer gives Henry VIII evidence alleging Catherine Howard's misconduct before and after her marriage.
Arrest of Catherine Howard
Catherine Howard is placed under guard at Syon House after accusations of adultery and misconduct.
Arrest of Catherine Howard
Catherine Howard is placed under house arrest for adultery
Execution
Thomas Culpeper is executed for treason, an alleged lover of Catherine Howard. Francis Dereham is executed for treason, an alleged lover of Catherine Howard
Treason
Thomas Culpeper is executed for treason, an alleged lover of Catherine Howard. Francis Dereham is executed for treason, an alleged lover of Catherine Howard
Arrest of Catherine Howard
Cranmer hands Henry a letter accusing the Queen of living "most corruptly & sensually"
Battle of Haddonrig
Orders the Northern levies over the Border but they are dispersed at Haddonrig
Invasion of Scotland
Orders the Northern levies over the Border but they are dispersed at Haddonrig
Meeting with James IV
Wants to meet James IV but James does not appear & Henry claims the Scottish theone
Eighth Parliament
Henry VIII opens his eighth Parliament at Westminster, beginning a session dealing with major Tudor political and religious business.
Catherine Howard Attainder
Parliament passes the attainder condemning Catherine Howard and Jane Rochford; Henry VIII gives effect to the measure through royal assent.
Bristol City Status
Bristol gains city status in connection with the creation of the new cathedral diocese.
Diocese of Bristol Created
Creates the Diocese of Bristol, with the former Augustinian abbey church becoming Bristol Cathedral.
Battle of Solway Moss
Benefits politically from the Scottish defeat and uses captured nobles to increase English pressure on Scotland.
Marriage Project for Mary
Promotes a future marriage between Prince Edward and the infant Queen Mary, seeking a dynastic settlement favorable to England.
Release of Scottish Prisoners
Allows captured Scottish nobles to return home under political conditions, seeking to turn prisoners from Solway Moss into supporters of English policy.
King of Ireland
Assumes the title King of Ireland under legislation passed by the Irish Parliament, replacing the older title Lord of Ireland.
Invasion of Scotland
Henry VIII proposes that Prince Edward should marry Mary, Queen of Scots, to unite the Tudor and Stuart lines.
Marriage Alliance
Henry VIII seeks to marry Prince Edward to Mary, Queen of Scots, as a means of uniting the kingdoms.
Alliance Anglo-Imperial alliance
An Anglo-Imperial alliance is completed against France
Alliance Henry VIII and Charles V
Completes an Anglo-Imperial alliance with Charles V against Francis I of France.
Alliance with Charles V
The agreement prepares coordinated pressure on Francis I.
Anglo-Imperial Alliance
Completes an alliance with Emperor Charles V against France.
Anglo-Imperial War Policy
Commits England to renewed conflict with Francis I.
Declaration of War
Declares war on France so that he can win the French throne
Declaration of War
Declares war on France as England joins the wider Habsburg-Valois conflict.
War with France
Declares war on France as part of his alliance with Charles V.
Anglo-Scottish Marriage Treaty
The treaty proposes marriage between Prince Edward and Mary Queen of Scots.
Invasion of Scotland
Henry VIII expects the Treaty of Greenwich to bring Scotland into a closer English political orbit.
Invasion of Scotland
The Treaty of Greenwich agrees peace and the future marriage of Prince Edward to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Treaty of Greenwich
Agrees the Treaty of Greenwich with Scottish representatives.
Treaty of Greenwich
The Treaty of Greenwich agrees peace and proposes the marriage of Prince Edward to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Treaty of Greenwich
Henry VIII uses the treaty to seek a dynastic union between England and Scotland.
Treaty of Greenwich
The Treaty of Greenwich is signed, proposing peace between England and Scotland.
Treaty of Greenwich
The agreement seeks to end conflict after the Scottish defeat at Solway Moss.
Treaty of Greenwich
The settlement is intended to bring Scotland into a closer English alliance after the death of James V.
Treaty of Greenwich
The treaty arranges the future marriage of Prince Edward to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Treaty of Greenwich
The treaty provides that Mary, Queen of Scots, will marry Henry VIII's son Edward when both are older.
Marriage
Marries Catherine Parr, 6th wife, widow of Lord Latimer
Marriage to Catherine Parr
Marries Catherine Parr at Hampton Court Palace.
Sixth Marriage of Henry VIII
Takes Catherine Parr as his sixth and final wife.
Invasion of Scotland
The pro-French and Catholic faction around Cardinal Beaton opposes the English marriage policy.
Invasion of Scotland
Opposition to the English marriage grows among Scots who fear domination by Henry VIII.
Treaty of Greenwich
Regent Arran ratifies the Treaty of Greenwich before Scottish opposition to the English marriage hardens.
Treaty of Greenwich
Regent Arran ratifies the Treaty of Greenwich before Scottish opposition to English influence grows.
Invasion of Scotland
Mary, Queen of Scots, is crowned at Stirling as Scottish leaders seek to protect her from English pressure.
Treaty of Greenwich
Opposition to the treaty increases among Scots who fear domination by Henry VIII.
Invasion of Scotland
The Scottish Parliament rejects the Treaty of Greenwich and the proposed Edward and Mary marriage.
Scotland reverts to pro-French & Catholic policies
Scotland reverts to pro-French & Catholic policies after the escape of Cardinal Beaton
Scottish Policy Hardens
Turns increasingly toward coercion after the marriage treaty collapses.
Treaty of Greenwich
The Scottish Parliament rejects the Treaty of Greenwich and the proposed marriage alliance with England.
Treaty of Greenwich
The Scottish Parliament rejects the Treaty of Greenwich and the proposed Edward and Mary marriage.
Treaty of Greenwich
The treaties of Greenwich are not ratified by Scotland
Treaty of Greenwich Rejected
Receives news that Scotland has rejected the Greenwich settlement.
Declaration of War
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
Declaration of War
Henry VIII prepares war against Scotland after the rejection of the Greenwich marriage settlement.
Delaration of War
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
Invasion of Scotland
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.
Invasion of Scotland
The Rough Wooing is a war between Scotland and England.
Invasion of Scotland
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.
Invasion of Scotland
English policy shifts from negotiation to coercion after Scotland refuses the Greenwich settlement.
Invasion of Scotland
Henry VIII treats Scotland's rejection of the Treaty of Greenwich as a breach of the marriage settlement.
Invasion of Scotland
The renewal of Scottish links with France strengthens Henry VIII's fear of a hostile northern frontier.
Rough Wooing
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
Rough Wooing
The Rough Wooing is a war between Scotland and England
Rough Wooing Begins
Prepares military action after Scotland rejects the marriage settlement.
Treaty of Greenwich
Henry VIII treats Scotland's rejection of the treaty as justification for renewed war and the Rough Wooing.
War against Scotland
The failed diplomacy develops into the conflict known as the Rough Wooing.
Advancement of True Religion Act
Supports legislation restricting unauthorized scripture reading by lower social ranks.
Alliance Agreement at Solway Moss
Releases Angus & 10 Lords captured at Solway Moss to secure a Scottish alliance. Agrees for Prince Edward to marry Mary Queen of Scots
Alliance Henry VIII and Scottish lords
Releases Angus & 10 Lords captured at Solway Moss to secure a Scottish alliance
Invasion of Scotland
A period of "rough wooing" is marked by a 2 day burning of Edinburgh
King's Book
Authorizes the doctrinal statement commonly called the King's Book.
Legislation
An Act forbids the laboring class to read scripture
Necessary Doctrine and Erudition
The publication presents a conservative statement of official English religion.
Reballion of Rebels in Kent
The Prebendaries plot in Kent is supports grass-roots Reformation
Reform of Bible Use
An Act forbids the laboring class to read scripture
Reformation, The
The Prebendaries plot in Kent is supports grass-roots Reformation
Restriction on Bible Reading
The Advancement of True Religion Act tightens control of religious reading.
Rough Wooing
A period of "rough wooing" is marked by a 2 day burning of Edinburgh
Scripture
An Act forbids the laboring class to read scripture
Siege of Edinburgh
A period of "rough wooing" is marked by a 2 day burning of Edinburgh
Siege of Edinburgh
The Abbey & Holyrood are sacked. A period of "rough wooing" is marked by a 2 day burning of Edinburgh
Siege of Holyrood
The Abbey & Holyrood are sacked
Unification
An Act of Parliament extends all English law to Wales
War with France
Prepares for renewed war with France while also pursuing the Rough Wooing against Scotland.
Battle of Glasgow
Forces of Regent Arran defeat supporters of Lennox and Glencairn who favour the English marriage policy.
Invasion of Scotland
Henry VIII issues instructions blaming Cardinal Beaton and Scottish opponents of the marriage alliance.
Dissolution of Parliament
Henry VIIIs Eighth Parliament closes. Delivers a speech in Parliament for religious unity & ends the Parliamentary session
King's Style Act
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.
King's Style Act
Parliament confirms Henry VIII's style as Defender of the Faith and Supreme Head of the Church of England and Ireland.
King's Style Act
The King's Style Act makes it treason to attempt to deprive Henry VIII of his royal titles and religious style.
Third Succession Act
Elizabeth is restored to the line of succession after Mary, without reversing her illegitimacy.
Third Succession Act
Mary is restored to the line of succession after Edward, without reversing her illegitimacy.
Third Succession Act
The Act places Prince Edward first in the line of succession as Henry VIII's male heir.
Third Succession Act
The Third Succession Act receives royal assent, revising the Tudor succession settlement.
Treason Act
The Treason Act allows treasons committed outside the king's dominions to be tried within England.
Rough Wooing
The Privy Council issues instructions for Hertford's punitive expedition against Scotland.
Invasion of Scotland
Edward Seymour, Lord Hertford, gathers English forces for the invasion of southern Scotland.
Burning of Edinburgh
Hertford's army lands at Leith during the punitive expedition ordered by Henry VIII.
Burning of Edinburgh
Edward Seymour, Earl of Hertford, lands at Leith with an English expeditionary force during the Rough Wooing.
Invasion of Scotland
Hertford's expedition lands at Leith to punish Scotland for rejecting Henry VIII's marriage policy.
Siege of Edinburgh
Major hostilities begin with an attack on Edinburgh, led by the Earl of Hertford and Viscount Lisle
Burning of Edinburgh
English forces take Leith as the expedition advances toward Edinburgh.
Burning of Edinburgh
English forces sack and burn Edinburgh as part of Henry VIII's Rough Wooing policy.
Burning of Edinburgh
Edward Seymour, Earl of Hertford, sacks and burns Edinburgh during the Rough Wooing.
Burning of Edinburgh
English forces sack and burn Edinburgh during the Rough Wooing.
Invasion of Scotland
The burning of Edinburgh is intended to force Scotland to accept the Edward and Mary marriage.
Burning of Edinburgh
Holyrood Abbey and nearby buildings suffer destruction during Hertford's raid.
Burning of Edinburgh
The destruction of Edinburgh becomes one of the most notorious actions of Henry VIII's Rough Wooing.
Burning of Edinburgh
The raid is intended to punish Scotland for rejecting the Treaty of Greenwich and the proposed Edward and Mary marriage.
Burning of Edinburgh
Holyrood Abbey and buildings around the abbey are damaged during Hertford's raid.
Invasion of Scotland
The invasion is designed to intimidate Scottish political leaders and weaken resistance to English terms.
Invasion of France
English forces gather in the Pale of Calais for a two-pronged campaign against France.
Invasion of France
Orders Norfolk toward Montreuil and Suffolk toward Boulogne during the French campaign.
Siege of Calais
Henry joins his troops in Calais
Invasion of France
Henry VIII crosses the Channel with an invasion force during the renewed war against France.
Siege of Boulogne
The Duke of Suffolk begins the English siege of Boulogne-sur-Mer.
Siege of Montreuil
Norfolk's army begins operations against Montreuil but fails to take the town.
Siege of Boulogne
English artillery bombards Boulogne as Henry VIII takes personal command of the siege.
Siege of Boulogne
The French garrison agrees to surrender after English mining and bombardment breach the defences.
Capture of Boulogne
Boulogne falls to Henry VIII and becomes an English possession on the French coast.
Capture of Boulogne-sur-Mer
Henry VIII besieges & takes Boulogne-sur-Mer, his only success in the French campaign
Invasion of France
Henry VIII besieges & takes Boulogne-sur-Mer, his only success in the French campaign
Siege of Boulogne-sur-Mer
Henry VIII besieges & takes Boulogne-sur-Mer, his only success in the French campaign
Treaty of Crepy
Charles V makes separate peace with France, leaving Henry VIII isolated in the war.
Return from France
Henry VIII leaves France after ordering Boulogne to be held against French counter-attack.
Siege of Boulogne
A French assault nearly retakes Boulogne but is repulsed by the English garrison.
Battle of Lothian
The troops of Mary of Guise & the Earl of Arran make a stand against the English
Siege of Lothian
The troops of Mary of Guise & the Earl of Arran make a stand against the English
Assured Scots
Henry VIII cultivates Scottish nobles willing to support the English marriage alliance.
Charles V comes to terms with Francis I without consulting his English
Charles V comes to terms with Francis I without consulting his English ally
Invasion of France
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
Invasion of France
Henry VIII is forced to retreat from France when Charles V & Francois I make peace
Invasion of Scotland
The invasions of 1544 and 1545 are led by Edward Seymour (Earl of Hertford; later Duke of Somerset)
Invasion of Scotland
Henry VIII supports assured Scots who promise to back the English marriage alliance and oppose the French faction.
Legislation
The 3rd Act of Succession restores Mary & Elizabeth to the succession after Edward
Legislation
Under the 3rd Act of Succession a Regency Council will be established if Henry dies during Edward's minority
Peace
Henry VIII is forced to retreat from France when Charles V & Francois I make peace
Reform of Regency
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
Siege of Edinburgh
Henry burns Edinburgh in revenge for the annullment of the Treaty of Greenwich
Siege of Firth of Forth
Sends an armada to the Firth of Forth
Treaty of Greenwich
Henry burns Edinburgh in revenge for the annullment of the Treaty of Greenwich
Fortification
English engineers and labourers work to strengthen Boulogne as a fortified continental possession.
Battle of Ancrum Moor
Scottish forces defeat an English army at Ancrum Moor during the Rough Wooing.
Battle of Ancrum Moor
Scottish forces defeat an English raiding army during the Rough Wooing.
Battle of Ancrum Moor
The battle reverses English momentum in the Scottish Borders during Henry VIII's Rough Wooing.
Battle of Ancrum Moor
The English defeat at Ancrum Moor weakens Henry VIII's attempt to force the Edward and Mary marriage alliance.
Melrose Abbey
English troops damage Melrose Abbey during raids into the Scottish Borders before Ancrum Moor.
Invasion of England
A French fleet attempts to invade England to divert Henry VIII from Boulogne-sur-Mer
Battle of the Solent
A large French fleet enters the Solent during an attempted invasion of England.
Invasion of England
A French fleet threatens England and lands forces on the Isle of Wight during the campaign.
Invasion of England
A large French fleet enters the Solent during an attempted invasion of England.
Battle of the Solent
The French fleet confronts English naval forces in the Solent during the attempted invasion.
Battle of the Solent
Henry VIII observes the naval campaign from the Portsmouth area as the French fleet threatens the coast.
Battle of the Solent
English and French naval forces fight in the Solent during the French invasion attempt.
Battle of the Solent
John Dudley commands the English fleet during the naval battle against the French in the Solent.
Mary Rose
The Mary Rose sinks during the naval fighting against the French fleet in the Solent.
Mary Rose
The Mary Rose sinks during the Battle of the Solent with heavy loss of life.
Sinking of Mary Rose
The Mary Rose sinks near Portsmouth during action against the French fleet.
Sinking of Mary Rose - Open Gunports
Mary Rose heeled sharply during the Solent action, allowing seawater to enter through open lower gunports before the ship sank rapidly.
Battle of the Solent
French forces land on the Isle of Wight after the naval fighting in the Solent.
Battle of the Solent
The French fleet fails to force a decisive landing despite its strength and withdraws from the Solent campaign.
Battle of the Solent
The battle becomes associated with the loss of the Mary Rose and the failure of the French invasion attempt.
Invasion of Scotland
The Earl of Hertford leads renewed English operations on the Scottish Borders during the Rough Wooing.
Parliament
Opening of Henry VIIIs 9th Parliament
Fortification
English commanders strengthen frontier positions to maintain pressure on Scotland.
Invasion of Scotland
English campaigns in Scotland continue under Edward Seymour, Earl of Hertford, during the Rough Wooing.
Invasion of Scotland
The continuing invasion reflects Henry VIII's aim to break the Auld Alliance and impose the Edward and Mary marriage.
Rough Wooing
English border warfare continues as Henry VIII tries to force Scotland to accept the Edward and Mary marriage.
Capture of Boulogne-sur-Mer
The French recapture Boulogne-sur-Mer
Assassination of Beaton
Cardinal Beaton is assassinated by Protestant lairds hostile to his pro-French and anti-English policy.
Assassination of Beaton
Has Beaton assassinated by Fife Protestants who oppose his pro-French policy
Assassination of Beaton
Seymour captures Edinburgh (1544) and Cardinal Beaton is murdered 29 May 1546, but the English are unable to reduce Scotland to obedience
Invasion of Scotland
Seymour captures Edinburgh (1544) and Cardinal Beaton is murdered 29 May 1546, but the English are unable to reduce Scotland to obedience
Peace Negotiations
Negotiations resume as England and France seek to end the costly war over Boulogne.
Peace
Ends 2 yrs of conflict between Henry VIII & Francois I
Peace Treaty at Boulogne-sur-Mer
The Anglo-French peace Treaty gives England control of Boulogne-sur-Mer for 8 years
Rule of Boulogne-sur-Mer
The Anglo-French peace treaty leaves England in control of Boulogne-sur-Mer for eight years.
Rule of Boulogne-sur-Mer
The peace settlement provides that Boulogne will later be returned to France for a large payment.
Treaty of Camp
The Treaty of Camp ends the war and allows England to retain Boulogne temporarily.
Treaty of Campe
The Anglo-French peace Treaty gives England control of Boulogne-sur-Mer for 8 years
St Andrews Castle
The Castilians hold St Andrews Castle and seek English support after the killing of Cardinal Beaton.
Death of Henry VIII
Anne Askew is burnt at Smithfield for heresy
Execution
Anne Askew is burnt at Smithfield for heresy
Arrest of Thomas Howard and Henry Howard
After the arrests of Norfolk & Surrey Henry ousts them from the Regency Council
Constitution of England
The Regency Council will rule by majority, there is no provision for a Protector
Regency
The Regency Council will rule by majority, there is no provision for a Protector
Succession
Henry VIII revises his will, naming Edward, Mary and Elizabeth in the succession and providing a council for Edward's minority.
Will
Henry VIII revises his will to confirm Edward, Mary and Elizabeth in the succession.
Will
The succession provisions follow the Third Succession Act and place Edward first in line.
Will
The will names a council to govern during Prince Edward's minority.
Will
Henry VIII's will is finalised before his death and later used to govern the succession.
Will
Henry VIII's will uses statutory authority to confirm Edward, Mary and Elizabeth in the Tudor succession.
Arrest of Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey
Arrested for advocating that his father become Regent after Henry VIII's death
Navy Board
The Navy Board is founded to administer the Navy
Reform of Navy
The Navy Board is founded to administer the Navy
Rough Wooing
The war remains unresolved at Henry VIII's death, with England still seeking to impose the marriage alliance on Scotland.
Succession
Henry VIII's will confirms the 3rd Act of Succession
Trial
Suspects sacramentarianism & launches an investigation. Catherine submits to her husbands will & the inquiry ends
Health of Henry VIII
Informed by Anthony Denny that he is "not like to live", he refuses to believe it
Death of Henry VIII
Death of Henry VIII at Whitehall Palace.
Will
The will takes effect after Henry VIII dies, leaving the Crown to Edward VI under a regency council.
Death of Henry VIII
News of Henry VIII's death is publicly released after being kept secret for three days.
Dissolution of Parliament
Henry VIIIs 9th Parliament closes, final Parliament of reign
Sinking of Henry Grace à Dieu
Accidentally destroyed by fire
Sinking of Henry Grace à Dieu - Woolwich Fire
Henry Grace à Dieu, also called Great Harry, was accidentally destroyed by fire at Woolwich on 25 August 1553.
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Compiled and edited by World History Database
Biography timelines are compiled from the World History Database and checked against established historical and biographical reference sources.
Last reviewed: September 2026.
Reference points include Encyclopaedia Britannica biographies, The National Archives, Library of Congress, and U.S. National Archives. Individual database records may draw on additional specialist sources appropriate to the person, period or event.
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