Why did Henry VIII give Wolsey so much power?

• Unlike his father, Henry VIII did not wish to spend his time on the day-to-day business of government.
• He was young and had succeeded peacefully to the throne. His position was secure; there would be no powerful rival claimants to the throne during the reign.
• His father, by contrast, had been a usurper with no real claim to the throne, beset by challengers and rebellion.

  • Therefore he worked hard at the business of government to defend his security.
• He wished to concern himself with the pursuit of military adventures, especially expeditions to conquer France. He saw Francis I of France (king 1515-47) as a rival.
• He wished to enhance his own and England’s position in Europe. He saw himself as the equal of Francis I and Charles V.