The Anti-Noble Policy of Henry VII

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The Anti-Noble Policy of Henry VII Henrys policy to the nobles during his reign could be considered as antagonistic. Henry had realised how easily the nobles could pose a threat to him, due to their power and responsibilities in his country, and so reduced this power thus reducing the possibilities of his downfall. This essays intention is to determine why Henry pursued such a dangerous policy, yet also reviewing the claims that his policies were anti-noble. This essay will also be interpreting the reasons for Henrys actions and the views of historians on the subject. Before the reign of Henry VII, the role of the nobles was highly significant in comparison to that during his reign due to the policies he introduced. Previous to his accession, the nobles had controlling, highly rated responsibilities, for example the Kings' lieutenants, which kept control of law and order in their locality. This position gave them power over many citizens which surrounded them, the problem for Henry being that these people were more likely to support their local noble, rather than a king whom they rarely or possibly never had contact with. Previous to his reign, the nobility also maintained large amounts of land, provided by the king of that era, as well as many new lords being created under the ruling of his previous accessors. King Henry VII's reign introduced a new way of ruling a country. With his accession there were many other alterations made to the monarchy. The actions he took are considered by some as being anti - noble, but this issue is the key point reviewed by this essay. Henry made alterations because he came to realise ... ... middle of paper ... ...rptions, he remained in power until his death in ......, unlike many before him, who were forced to abdicate due to actions taken by the nobility. The main issue brought to attention in this essay is concerning the claim that Henry was anti-noble deliberately, to secure his throne; however, this is not the only issue. There are three main others. The initial exploration by this essay is into the financial prospects. Previously, before Henrys' policies, the nobles requested money from the king for amenities such as private armies. Henry's policy decreased the expenditure for these requests. --------------------------------------------------------------------- [1] "England" Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia 99. [2] Seminar Sheet page 1 [3] Seminar sheet. Page 1 [4] Seminar Sheet [5] Seminar Sheet

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