Why Did Henry Viii Close Down The Monasteries?

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Henry VIII wanted the monastries' wealth. This was something that encouraged a number of rulers in Europe to break with Rome. At the time, the amount of property (real estate) owned by the church was immense and the Church was often referred to as the dead hand [in property]. The point was that an organization like the Church never dies, and so the property doesn't change hands - and isn't subject to inheritance tax. The Church had no incentive to use its property well ... So there was an economic problem. Henry closed down the monasteries so he could collect the taxes as he just wanted more money basicly! Between 1536 & 1540 Henry VII closed down all the monasteries in England. Monasteries were destroyed, their contents and wealth confiscated (& given to the king ) & those who opposed this were hanged. Henry did this to try to reduce the power of the pope. At the time Henry thought he was right to do this. However, many people opposed Henry’s actions due to there religious beliefs. Looking back it is clear there was evidence supporting & opposing the decision to close the monasteries. In many ways Henry was right to close the monasteries. Many religious houses were breaking the Benedictine rules and abusing their power & wealth. The monks were turning beggars away, leaving the monasteries, gambling, wearing finery, & the relics were broken, they also ignored the poor. On the other hand, many people question Henrys decision. Some of the evidence that was collected at the time was unreliable & biased against the monasteries the people of the community had no one to help them if they were sick, had a shortage of food or if they were made temporarily homeless they would have no where to get help for any of these problems. OK, this is a long story you know but i'll try my best to keep it succinct. Henry was married to
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