Henry VIII (reigned 1509–1547)

Henry VIII wanted to annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon, who had not produced a male heir. When the Pope refused to grant the annulment, Henry broke away from the authority of the Roman Catholic Church. In 1534, through the Act of Supremacy, Henry declared himself the Supreme Head of the Church of England.

This break with Rome was a defining moment in English history. England became a Protestant country, though the process was gradual and often contested. The Church of England, also known as the Anglican Church, continues to be the established church in England today.

Between 1536 and 1541, Henry VIII closed down monasteries, convents, and priories across England, Wales, and Ireland — an act known as the dissolution of the monasteries. Their lands and wealth were seized by the Crown. Many monastic buildings fell into ruin; others were converted into private homes or churches.

The dissolution significantly redistributed wealth and land, and ended centuries of monastic life that had been central to education, health, and community support.

Henry VIII had six wives. His marital history is a well-known part of English history:

1. Catherine of Aragon — marriage annulled
2. Anne Boleyn — executed; mother of the future Elizabeth I
3. Jane Seymour — died (after childbirth); mother of the future Edward VI
4. Anne of Cleves — marriage annulled
5. Catherine Howard — executed
6. Catherine Parr — survived Henry

Two of Henry's children went on to become monarchs: Mary I (daughter of Catherine of Aragon) and Elizabeth I (daughter of Anne Boleyn).