Thomas Becket

Archbishop and martyr of Canterbury

Thomas Becket - Leaders & Politicians born 1118
Born

1118
908 years ago

Died
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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