Henry VII - Character and Aims

Henry VIII's Early Actions as King

• Spent all the money on wars against France.
• Council Learned in Law was abolished in 1510 and Empson and Dudley were arrested.
• Cancelled bonds and recognisances issued by the council.
• Government by council dissapeared and a cheif minister became central to decision making instead.

Henry VIII

• Became King just before he turned 18.
• Older brother, Prince Arthur, had died when Henry was 11.
• Therefore, he had spent his teenage years being prepared for the role of King.

Character

• Ruthless
• Selfish
• Intelligent
• Cunning 
• Shrewd 
• Untrustworthy
• Courageous
• Corrupted by power.
• Easily influenced people.
• Humourous.

Henry's Initial Aims

• To establish his status as a prominent European monarch via marriage.
• …