The Dissolution of the Monasteries

The Dissolution of the Monasteries was a process in 1536-1541 during which King Henry VIII disbanded monasteries, priories, and religious houses across England. This was driven by political, economic, and religious motives, including Henry’s break from the Catholic Church and desire to seize their wealth and land. Monks and nuns were often displaced, and their properties were sold to private individuals. The event significantly reduced the power of the Catholic Church in England, leading to widespread social and economic changes and the redistribution of monastic lands to the monarchy and new landowners.