Why did Henry struggle to get a divorce from Catherine of Aragon?

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Who was Catherine of Aragon's nephew and why was he a problem?
He was Charles V and he was the Holy Roman Emperor and a powerful political figure. He held influence over Pope Clement VII, so papal policy was largely shaped by Charles' wishes.
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How did Wolsey think he could attain the divorce initially?
Without the Pope he thought he could use his power as a papal legate, but the Pope was released and it was too late.
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What was Wolsey's second strategy to attain the divorce?
To have the case heard in England with papal approval.
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Why was Catherine a threat to Henry getting a divorce?
She had many powerful supporters at court - e.g John Fisher and Thomas More. She fought for the validity of her marriage and her daughters legitimacy. Also, her loyalty to Henry remained unwavering.
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What was the Spanish brief?
A letter to Catherine's mother that cleared the discrepancies surrounding the marriage. Henry demanded to see it but the Spanish refused to let it out of their sight. Some say the brief was fake.
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What did the court at Blackfriars resolve?
Nothing because there was no resolution of the problem. The case was even put off because of the long, hot Italian summer!
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Card 2

Front

How did Wolsey think he could attain the divorce initially?

Back

Without the Pope he thought he could use his power as a papal legate, but the Pope was released and it was too late.

Card 3

Front

What was Wolsey's second strategy to attain the divorce?

Back

Preview of the front of card 3

Card 4

Front

Why was Catherine a threat to Henry getting a divorce?

Back

Preview of the front of card 4

Card 5

Front

What was the Spanish brief?

Back

Preview of the front of card 5
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