How Did Henry Viii Influence The World

Often times, history is defined by powerful kingdoms and the vigilant leaders that formed the world in which we live today. The Pharaohs of Egypt, Julius Caesar in Rome, and Genghis Kahn of the Mongolian Empire, for example, all had one thing in common. They left impressions on their societies that are still being talked about to this day. Henry Tudor King of England, more popularly known as Henry VIII, is a ruler who not only falls into this category, but manages to stand out too. Henry VIII is known as one of the most ruthless and most powerful rulers in world history. With a reign lasting nearly forty years he became not only a feared ruler, but also a respected one. Renowned for his deep appreciation of the arts, his quick temper, and his repetitive failure to do the one thing he wanted most, father an heir to his throne, Henry VIII’s legacy had a lasting impact on not only England, but the rest of the world as well. Henry VIII’s life was originally destined for obscurity, and by the age of 17 he ruled all of England. Henry VIII was born on June 28th 1491 in the Palace of Greenwich which is about five miles outside of London. His father was Henry Tudor VII and his mother was Elizabeth of York. Henry had an older brother Arthur and an older sister named Margaret.

With the death of his father there was much uncertainty from high officials on entrusting their land in an unmarried adolescent. Henry came into his position already trying to implement change from his father’s dynasty. By doing this he gained a lot respect from many officials. He gained respect from many by absolving many of their crimes and debts. “ Noblemen arrested under suspicion of plotting were set free...Many debts [owed by] commissioners were cancelled” (Doran/Starkey 53). Acts like these got him much respect from his court. Henry VIII ruled with an iron fist and demanded respect from his people, but with him respect given was respect