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The motives behind Henry VIII's break with Rome

Henry's motives for breaking with Rome are examined. Essentially, these centred on his need for a male heir. This meant taking a new wife, which the Pope refused to accept, so Henry made himself head of the Church of England. The clip then describes how Henry secured his new position by a combination of new laws and executing opponents. The impact of this change on ordinary people is also discussed.

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4 minutes