Edward VI of England is crowned King

February 20th, 1547

February 20th, 1547

Edward VI of England is crowned King
How Long Ago?

478 years, 23 days ago

Location

Westminster, London, England

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Edward VI
  • Henry VIII
  • Thomas Cranmer
  • Edward Seymour
Links & References
Tags

Edward VI of England is crowned King

Edward VI was crowned King of England in Westminster Abbey, succeeding his father, Henry VIII. The coronation took place amid lavish ceremonies that highlighted the royal pageantry and the significance of the monarchy in England. At just nine years old, Edward's crowning marked the beginning of a new chapter in Tudor lineage, with expectations for his reign shaped by the political and religious changes initiated by his father. The ceremony not only reinforced Edward's position but also symbolized continuity in the English monarchy following the transformative reign of Henry VIII.

Edward VI became king at age nine.

Coronation took place in Westminster Abbey.

Ceremony highlighted Tudor royal traditions.

Marked a shift towards Protestant rule.

What Happened?

The coronation of Edward VI at Westminster Abbey was a significant event, marking the transition of power from one of the most well-known monarchs, Henry VIII, to his only surviving son, Edward. Born on October 12, 1537, Edward became king at the tender age of nine following his father's death. The lavish ceremony included traditional rites, such as the anointing of the king with holy oil, the presentation of regalia, and the homage from nobles. The proceedings were orchestrated to establish Edward's legitimacy and the continuity of the Tudor dynasty, embodying both political stability and the evolving religious landscape of England.

Allegiance to the Church was a notable theme as the ceremony took place against the backdrop of the Protestant Reformation that Henry VIII had begun, impacting religious affiliations across the nation. The young king was raised under the influence of protestant reformers, including Thomas Cranmer and Edward Seymour, who sought to assert Protestant doctrines. This posed challenges, as Edward's reign would soon see a diverging path from Catholic traditions, influencing English theology and governance.

The coronation was characterized by its grandeur, featuring pageantry that celebrated the newly formed royal identity. As the youngest monarch in English history, Edward's rule would be heavily influenced by regents as he was not of a governing age. His subsequent policies and the push for Protestantism would have lasting ramifications on English society, positioning England in a more contentious relationship with Catholicism and Europe. Ultimately, Edward's reign, though brief, was marked by significant religious and political developments that shaped the future trajectory of England.

Why Does it Matter?

The coronation of Edward VI is interesting because it set the stage for profound religious shifts in England and showcased the complexities of monarchic rule during a time of turbulence. Edward’s ascension to the throne at such a young age, paired with the influence of his regents, reflected the challenges and intricacies of governance during the Tudor period. His reign became a pivotal point in the establishment of Protestantism, which would lead to further rebellions and conflicts in subsequent decades.

Discover More Historic Events from February 20th

Crime & Law

Kalamazoo County Experiences Multiple Shooting Incidents

February 20th, 2016 9 years ago

In Kalamazoo County, Michigan, six people lost their lives and two others sustained injuries during a series of shootings across three locations. The perpetrator reportedly used a vehicle to travel between sites, marking a tense and chaotic evening for the community. Authorities quickly mobilized to apprehend the suspect. The events unfolded on a Saturday night, capturing attention both locally and nationally.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Trains Collide in Rafz, Switzerland

February 20th, 2015 10 years ago

Two trains crashed in Rafz, causing significant injuries. Around 49 individuals were reported injured, resulting from a collision that occurred during the morning rush hours. Swiss Federal Railways announced the cancellation of certain train services following the incident, impacting commuters in the region. Emergency services were promptly dispatched to assist those affected and manage the situation at the scene.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Snipers Target Euromaidan Protesters in Kyiv

February 20th, 2014 11 years ago

Amid intensifying clashes between protesters and police in Kyiv, dozens of anti-government demonstrators were shot and killed, reportedly by snipers, on February 20, 2014. This marked a turning point in the protests against the government of President Viktor Yanukovych, who had suspended an association agreement with the European Union, sparking widespread unrest. The violent confrontations escalated, drawing international attention and condemnation as the death toll continued to rise.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Historic Floods and Mudslides in Madeira

February 20th, 2010 15 years ago

Heavy rains in Madeira Island led to catastrophic floods and mudslides, resulting in significant loss of life and property. The impacted areas experienced intense downpours that triggered landslides, damaging infrastructure, homes, and claiming at least 43 lives. This disaster marked one of the most severe natural calamities in the history of the archipelago, affecting thousands and leading to emergency responses from local and national authorities.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Sri Lankan Military Downs Tamil Tiger Aircraft

February 20th, 2009 16 years ago

Two aircraft operated by the Tamil Tigers, filled with C4 explosives and targeted at the Sri Lankan Air Force headquarters, were intercepted and shot down by the Sri Lankan military before they could reach their intended target. This marked a significant engagement in the ongoing civil conflict as both sides intensified their military tactics.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Spain Votes to Ratify EU Constitution

February 20th, 2005 20 years ago

Spain held a referendum on the ratification of the proposed Constitution of the European Union, with a majority supporting the constitutional proposal despite witnessing a low turnout among eligible voters. This pivotal decision marked Spain's first direct public intervention in the constitutional process of the EU, reflecting the nation's commitment to a united Europe.

Continue Reading