Above Llandaff Cathedral, Cardiff, South Wales
Thomas Cromwell - Who Was He?
By Mark Holinshed
Thomas Cromwell was the enigmatic man who directed England’s break from Rome. He was instrumental in introducing the legislation that rejected papal authority, presided over the dissolution of the monasteries and probably brought down one of Christendom’s most infamous queens. If there had never been a Thomas Cromwell, the world would be a very different place.
Is it, however, plausible that this man, undoubtedly a lawyer, an accomplished politician, member of Parliament, orchestrator of men and policy came into the world as the son of a drunken innkeeper and Jack of all trades?
No, it is not.
This page within the Henry VIII, the Reign website, is devoted to at least attempt – collaboratively for those that may wish to contribute – to establish some plausible history of the man, his motivation and ambitions, the man who propelled the Reformation in England. At the same time, hopefully, and additionally shed some additional light on those who assisted, worked alongside or even directed him.
To begin with, I am searching for a common denominator by which to associate these four images below.
Thomas Cromwell: He was Earl of Essex for only a few weeks in 1540 following the former earl, Henry Bouchier’s death after falling from his horse.
The tomb of Archbishop of York Christopher Bainbridge in the church of the Venerable English College in Rome.
Southwell Minster and the old Bishop’s Palace at Southwell in Nottinghamshire.
Map: Putney, Cromwells home town and Battersea showing the site of the former candle factory which was excavated during 1996-98.
Is it, however, plausible that this man, undoubtedly a lawyer, an accomplished politician, member of Parliament, orchestrator of men and policy came into the world as the son of a drunken innkeeper and Jack of all trades?
No, it is not.
This page within the Henry VIII, the Reign website, is devoted to at least attempt – collaboratively for those that may wish to contribute – to establish some plausible history of the man, his motivation and ambitions, the man who propelled the Reformation in England. At the same time, hopefully, and additionally shed some additional light on those who assisted, worked alongside or even directed him.
To begin with, I am searching for a common denominator by which to associate these four images below.
Thomas Cromwell: He was Earl of Essex for only a few weeks in 1540 following the former earl, Henry Bouchier’s death after falling from his horse.
The tomb of Archbishop of York Christopher Bainbridge in the church of the Venerable English College in Rome.
Southwell Minster and the old Bishop’s Palace at Southwell in Nottinghamshire.
Map: Putney, Cromwells home town and Battersea showing the site of the former candle factory which was excavated during 1996-98.
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