Question

What was Henry VIII of England's great, worldly goal?

1) To establish a strong navy
2) To expand the British Empire
3) To promote religious reform
4) To accumulate wealth and power

Answer 1

The correct answer is option 3. Henry VIII's great worldly goal was pursued through a religious reformation primarily for political reasons, aiming to secure an annulment, increase royal power, and control religious authority in England.

Step-by-step explanation:

Henry VIII of England's worldly goal was greatly influenced by his personal and political ambitions, leading to significant religious reforms. Notably, Henry's quest for an heir and his desire for an annulment of his marriage to Catherine of Aragon played a crucial role. Rejected by the Pope, he spearheaded the religious reformation in England for mostly political reasons, which are apparent in his establishment of the Church of England. This move enabled him to become the head of the Church and also allowed for the confiscation of wealth from the monasteries, thus increasing the royal treasury.

The reformation led by Henry VIII happened mostly for political reasons, considering his actions following his break with the Roman Catholic Church. This is supported by the enactment of laws like the Act in Restraint of Appeals and the Act of Submission of the Clergy which asserted his authority over the Church of England. Henry VIII's initiatives did not aim to promote religious reform for doctrinal reasons but rather to fulfill his goals related to governance and personal life, such as securing a male heir and exercising greater control over England's religious and political landscape.