The Overlooked and the Overbearing

Thomas Cromwell: A Man of Power and Peril

The Quiet Reformer: Sir Rowland Hill, the Man Behind the Curtain

The highly anticipated return of the historical drama Wolf Hall is upon us! Based on Hilary Mantel’s acclaimed trilogy, this series delves into the tumultuous reign of King Henry VIII, with a particular focus on the enigmatic figure of Thomas Cromwell.

Hans Holbein the Younger: Thomas Cromwell

Thomas Cromwell, a lawyer, politician, and administrator, rose to prominence during Henry VIII’s reign.

His influence was profound, reshaping the religious and political landscape of England.

Cromwell’s most significant contribution was the Act of Supremacy in 1534, which declared Henry VIII the Supreme Head of the Church of England, severing ties with Rome. This bold move marked the beginning of England’s break from the Catholic Church.

Cromwell also oversaw the Dissolution of the Monasteries, a process that dissolved religious houses and confiscated their vast wealth. This controversial act enriched the Crown and laid the foundation for the English Reformation.

Beyond these monumental changes, Cromwell promoted religious reform, encouraging the translation and publication of the Bible in English. He also strengthened royal authority, centralizing power and implementing administrative reforms.

Cromwell’s legacy is complex. While his actions were often ruthless and controversial, they fundamentally altered the course of English history, ushering in a new era of religious and political change.

Portrait of Sir Rowland Hill, Mercer’s Copy

There are some interesting links between Cromwell and Old Sir Rowland Hill.

Both men served as Privy Councillors for Henry VII.

Portrait of Henry VIII of England (Holbein)

Sir Rowland Hill was a pivotal figure in the English Reformation, instrumental in publishing the influential Geneva Bible. This Bible significantly shaped religious thought and practice. Hill’s involvement in the project was perilous. Uniquely, he held inquisitorial offices under both dispensations, with the power to seize books and prohibited items. It’s clear he also protected people.

Beyond his religious endeavours, Hill addressed the social upheaval caused by the dissolution of monasteries. He played a crucial role in re-establishing hospitals, schools, poverty relief, and charitable institutions.

Cromwell and Hill were in direct communication regarding Hill’s mercantile interests. Hill and other London merchants invested in the “George Mody” ship, which was attacked by Norwegian pirates in 1538. This resulted in significant financial loss, leading Hill to seek Cromwell’s help to recover the cargo. While the ship was recovered, the cargo was lost.

Cromwell was executed, while Hill, perhaps due to his subtlety and privileged position, was able to navigate the political landscape and survive.

Hill’s quiet cleverness, combined with the explosive legacy of the Geneva Bible, has allowed him to slip through the cracks of modern historical understanding…

…until now.