Evaluate the impact of the Act of Supremacy on the Pilgrimage of Grace.

The Act of Supremacy significantly contributed to the grievances that sparked the Pilgrimage of Grace.

The Act of Supremacy, passed in 1534, was a pivotal moment in English history. It declared King Henry VIII as the Supreme Head of the Church of England, effectively severing ties with the Roman Catholic Church and the Pope. This act was a key part of the English Reformation, a series of events that led to profound changes in the religious and political landscape of the country.

The Pilgrimage of Grace, which took place in 1536, was a large-scale rebellion against Henry VIII's religious reforms. It was primarily a reaction to the dissolution of the monasteries and the perceived threat to the Catholic faith. However, the Act of Supremacy played a significant role in fuelling the discontent that led to the uprising. The Act was seen by many as an affront to their religious beliefs and a direct challenge to the authority of the Pope, whom they still recognised as the head of the Church.

The Act of Supremacy not only changed the religious structure of England but also had significant social and economic impacts. The dissolution of the monasteries, which was a direct result of the Act, led to the loss of many social services provided by the monasteries, such as education, healthcare, and support for the poor. This caused widespread discontent among the populace, particularly in the North of England where the rebellion started.

Furthermore, the Act of Supremacy also led to a shift in power dynamics. The King's new role as the head of the Church allowed him to seize the wealth and lands of the monasteries, further enriching the Crown and the nobility at the expense of the Church and the common people. This was seen as a blatant display of greed and corruption, further fuelling the grievances of the rebels.

In conclusion, the Act of Supremacy had a profound impact on the Pilgrimage of Grace. It was a key factor in the religious, social, and economic grievances that led to the rebellion. The Act not only changed the religious landscape of England but also had far-reaching social and economic consequences, leading to widespread discontent and ultimately, rebellion.