The Fall of Cromwell
Why Thomas Cromwell fell from power in 1540: the failure of the marriage to Anne of Cleves, the enmity of the Duke of Norfolk, and the backlash against his reforms.
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The fall of Cromwell 📉
In 1540 Thomas Cromwell fell from power as suddenly as he had risen. The failure of the marriage to Anne of Cleves, the enmity of the Duke of Norfolk, and the anger of religious conservatives all turned Henry against him. He was executed for treason in 1540.
Words for the fall 🔑
Learn these four terms before you judge the fall of Cromwell.
Rise and fall compared 🆚
The fall of Cromwell echoed the earlier fall of Wolsey.
Grade 9 thinking 💡
To reach the top grades, weigh the failure of the Cleves marriage against the influence of the enemies of Cromwell, and compare his fall with the fall of Wolsey.
Match the cause to what it was 🔗
- the Cleves marriage
- the Duke of Norfolk
- religious conservatives
- the charge of treason
- a failed alliance match that angered Henry
- a rival who turned the king against Cromwell
- those who resented his reforms
- the crime for which he was executed
Match the term to its meaning 🧩
- treason
- conservative
- alliance
- Chief Minister
- the crime of betraying the king
- someone who wants to keep the old ways
- a friendly agreement between countries
- the most powerful minister of the king
A reason for the fall ❓
What was a main reason for the fall of Cromwell?
- The failure of the marriage to Anne of Cleves, which angered Henry.
- Losing a great battle in France.
- He retired because of old age.
Reasons for the fall ✅
Select the TWO reasons for the fall of Cromwell.
- The failed marriage to Anne of Cleves.
- The enmity of the Duke of Norfolk.
- His failure to gain the annulment from Catherine.
- His attempt to seize the crown.
Order the fall 🪜
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Summarise the fall 📝
Cromwell arranged the marriage to Anne of _____, which _____ disliked. The Duke of _____ turned the king against him. Charged with _____, Cromwell was executed in _____.
Count the years 🔢
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Spot the reasons for the fall 🖍️
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Cause of the fall, or reason he rose? 🧭
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Assess the fall ✍️
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