Cromwell and the Dissolution of Monasteries

In 1536, Thomas Cromwell rose to power by aiding King Henry VIII in removing Anne Boleyn and securing a divorce from Catherine of Aragon. Cromwell, driven by ambition and insecurity, sought to elevate his status by aligning with the king. He capitalized on the break from the Pope to nationalize religious houses, enriching Henry and gaining favor. This led to the widespread destruction of religious buildings, with their wealth redirected to the king's treasury, marking a significant social and economic shift.

What significant event in 1536 marked a turning point for Thomas Cromwell's career?

• The birth of his first child

• His appointment as Archbishop

• The downfall of Anne Boleyn

• His exile from England

What was Cromwell's primary motivation in serving King Henry VIII?

• To write historical texts

• To explore new lands

• To become a religious leader

• To gain wealth and power

How did Cromwell's background influence his ambitions?

• He was born into royalty

• He was a commoner with high ambitions

• He was a wealthy merchant

• He was a famous artist

What major religious change did Cromwell exploit to increase his influence?

• The Crusades

• The Protestant Reformation

• The break from the Pope in Rome

• The Great Schism

What was the primary goal of the dissolution of the monasteries?

• To preserve historical artifacts

• To enrich the king

• To redistribute land to peasants

• To build new churches

What was the impact of the dissolution on religious buildings?

• They were stripped of valuables and destroyed

• They were converted into schools

• They were preserved as museums

• They were expanded and renovated

How did the dissolution of the monasteries affect the social landscape?

• It caused significant social disruption

• It led to a cultural renaissance

• It improved relations with the Pope

• It had no noticeable impact

What was the long-term effect of the dissolution on Henry VIII's treasury?

• It depleted the treasury

• It led to economic collapse

• It significantly increased the treasury

• It had no effect

What was the result of Cromwell's actions on his standing with the king?

• He was exiled

• His favor with the king increased

• He was imprisoned

• He lost his titles

What visible impact did the dissolution have on the landscape?

• Forests were planted

• Religious buildings were left in ruins

• Roads were expanded

• New cities were built