Thomas Becket
Archbishop and martyr of Canterbury

Born
1118
907 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1170
854 years ago — 52 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
England
Links & References
Became archbishop of Canterbury in 1162, advocating for the rights and privileges of the Church against the Crown. His conflict with King Henry II over the authority of the Church led to significant tensions. Becket fled to France, returning to Canterbury in 1170 after a reconciliation attempt. Upon his return, he vigorously opposed the King's attempts to limit ecclesiastical power. This strife culminated in his murder in the Canterbury Cathedral on December 29, 1170.
served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1162 to 1170
martyred in Canterbury Cathedral in 1170
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