Henry VIII and the English Church

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Act of Succession: in 1534 this Act of Parliament declares Henry VIII's marriage to Catherine of Aragon null and void from the beginning and declares Henry's marriage to Anne Boleyn to be lawful. Sir Thomas More refuses to sign an oath supporting the Act of Succession.

Act of Supremacy: in November 1534 Parliament confirms that Henry VIII is "Supreme Head of the Church of England," nullifying the Pope's authority in England and giving the king the right to reform the church and to judge heresies. More also refuses to sign this act.

Acts of Treason: Multiple Acts of Parliament declaring that anyone saying that the king is "a heretic, schismatic, tyrant, infidel, or usurper of the crown" is guilty of high treason." Requires subjects to affirmatively condone Act of Supremecy. Used to charge More with treason.