Boleyn, Anne

Anne Boleyn was the second wife of King Henry VIII of England and Queen from 1533 to 1536. She played a crucial role in the English Reformation, as her refusal to become Henry's mistress led to his break with the Catholic Church and the establishment of the Church of England. Anne was known for her intelligence and political influence, but her life was tragic—she was executed on charges of treason, adultery, and incest, which many historians believe were fabricated. Her marriage to Henry significantly impacted England’s religious landscape and monarchy.