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Secondary sourceDocument1907

Wolsey and the Divorce of Henry VIII

John Acton · 1907

A scholarly essay examining Cardinal Wolsey's role in the divorce crisis that shaped Henry VIII's early reign.

Analyses the divorce crisis central to Henry VIII's reign and his break from the Catholic Church.

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About this source

What it is

Written by the historian John Acton and published in 1907, this essay examines the divorce of Catherine of Aragon and the role played by Cardinal Wolsey, drawing on newly explored archival letters.

Why it matters

The essay shows how later historians used newly discovered diplomatic letters from Rome, Venice, Simancas, Brussels and Vienna to revise earlier accounts of the divorce crisis. It highlights the central importance of Wolsey's ministry to understanding Henry VIII's break with Catherine and, eventually, with Rome.

Look closer

  • Why does the author say the 'old story' about the divorce 'will never be told again'?
  • What role did newly found letters play in changing historians' understanding?
  • What does this essay suggest about how historical interpretations can shift over time?

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