Compare and contrast the reigns of Henry VII and Henry VIII.

Henry VII and Henry VIII's reigns differed significantly in their approach to governance, religious policy, and foreign relations.

Henry VII, who reigned from 1485 to 1509, was the first Tudor king and is often credited with establishing the dynasty's strong centralised monarchy. He was a shrewd and calculating ruler, known for his financial prudence and administrative reforms. His reign was marked by a focus on law and order, and he worked tirelessly to restore stability after the Wars of the Roses. He was also known for his diplomatic skills, using marriage alliances to secure peace and strengthen England's position in Europe.

In contrast, Henry VIII, who reigned from 1509 to 1547, is perhaps best known for his six marriages and his role in the separation of the Church of England from the Roman Catholic Church. Unlike his father, Henry VIII was extravagant and impulsive. His reign was marked by religious upheaval, with the dissolution of the monasteries and the establishment of the Church of England. His foreign policy was also more aggressive, involving England in costly wars with France and Scotland.

In terms of governance, Henry VII was a more hands-on ruler than his son. He was deeply involved in the administration of his kingdom, implementing reforms to the legal system and the royal finances. He established the Court of Star Chamber to deal with cases of corruption and misuse of power, and he used bonds and recognisances to keep the nobility in check. Henry VIII, on the other hand, delegated much of the day-to-day running of the kingdom to his ministers, such as Cardinal Wolsey and Thomas Cromwell.

Religious policy was another area of stark contrast between the two kings. Henry VII was a devout Catholic and worked to maintain good relations with the Pope. He also promoted education and religious scholarship, founding several colleges and chapels. Henry VIII, however, broke with Rome over his desire to annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon. This led to the English Reformation and the establishment of the Church of England, with Henry as its head.

In terms of foreign policy, both kings sought to strengthen England's position in Europe, but they pursued this goal in different ways. Henry VII used diplomacy and marriage alliances, marrying his eldest son Arthur to Catherine of Aragon, the daughter of the Spanish monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella. Henry VIII, however, was more militaristic, engaging in a series of wars with France and Scotland. These