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Henry VIII rare manuscript: the letter which changed the course of history
Here is King Henry VIII's letter to the Bishop of Ravenna requesting a divorce - we have it for sale
Paul Fraser Collectibles, Wednesday 25 January 2012
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Paul Fraser has in its possession a rare signed manuscript autographed by a King. And this letter changed the course of history. Let us explain...
Ladies' man King Henry VIII was married no less than six times in his lifetime (28 June 1491 - 28 January 1547).
It was today in history, January 25, 1533, that the monarch married his second wife Anne Boleyn. Yet the ceremony was held in secret...
Relationship complications like divorce were, of course, still frowned upon in the 16th century!
Yet Catherine of Aragon, Henry's first wife whom he had married in 1509, had still not born the King the son. What's more, Catherine was deemed too old to have children by 1529.
It's incredible to think now, but at the time not even the King's will could get Henry the divorce he wanted.
Henry's quandary resulted in a humble letter, which you can see here. It is addressed to Cardinal Benedetto de Accolti, the Bishop of Ravenna.
It is no exaggeration to say that this letter changed the course of history, and heralded one of the most significant events in England's times past.
Henry VIII was known for his temper, and the frustrations voiced by the King in his letter to the cardinal would later lead him to split from the Roman Catholic Church.
Henry then anointed himself the Supreme Head of the Church of England.
This decision resulted in England separating itself from Europe, and severing all ties with the continent. The resulting deep rift between Catholics and Protestants still exists to this day.
These monumental changes in history can all be traced back to this letter, when Henry actively sought to get his divorce from Catherine of Aragon in 1529.
Dated January 18, 1529, the letter is presently for sale at Paul Fraser Collectibles. And it can be yours to own today.
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