The English Reformation

The English Reformation was a 16th-century movement that led to the Church of England breaking away from the authority of the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church. Initiated by King Henry VIII, it began when he sought an annulment that the Pope refused to grant. This prompted Henry to establish a separate church, allowing him to marry again and consolidate power. The Reformation also sparked religious changes, promoting Protestant beliefs and reforms in worship. Over time, it significantly influenced English society, culture, and politics, shaping the modern religious landscape in England.