The Succession Crisis and Henry VIII’s Will

Henry VIII’s death in January 1547 precipitated a delicate succession issue. Although Edward was his designated heir, Edward was only nine years old at the time, too young to rule independently.

Henry VIII’s Will and the Succession

Henry VIII had taken great care to establish a clear line of succession in his will. The order was:

Edward, his son and heir apparent

Mary, his eldest daughter by Catherine of Aragon

Elizabeth, his younger daughter by Anne Boleyn

Henry’s will also included provisions to exclude any descendants born out of his marriages declared invalid, solidifying Edward’s legitimacy.

Regency and Council of Government

Because Edward was a minor, Henry VIII’s will called for a regency council to govern until Edward reached majority. The Lord Protector would be a key figure during this period. Initially, Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset and Edward’s uncle, was appointed Lord Protector and wielded significant power. shutdown123