Early Reign (1509-1520s):
* Thomas Wolsey: Archbishop of York and Lord Chancellor, Wolsey was Henry's closest advisor for much of his early reign. He was instrumental in many of Henry's policies, including foreign affairs and religious reform. However, his ambitions and failures to secure a papal annulment for Henry's marriage to Catherine of Aragon led to his downfall.
* Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk: Henry's close friend and brother-in-law (he married Mary, Henry's sister), Brandon was a skilled soldier and a loyal companion. He served as a key figure in various military campaigns and diplomatic missions.
* Thomas Howard, Duke of Norfolk: A powerful nobleman and Henry's cousin, Norfolk served as Lord High Admiral and played a significant role in both foreign affairs and domestic politics.
* Thomas More: A brilliant humanist scholar and jurist, More was initially a staunch supporter of Henry and served as Lord Chancellor. However, his refusal to accept the King as Supreme Head of the Church led to his execution in 1535.
The Break with Rome and the Reformation (1530s-1540s):
* Thomas Cromwell: Rising from humble beginnings, Cromwell became Henry's chief minister and played a pivotal role in the English Reformation. He oversaw the dissolution of the monasteries and the establishment of a new religious order.
* Anne Boleyn: Henry's second wife, Anne was a strong-willed and intelligent woman who championed religious reform and opposed traditional Catholic practices. Her influence on Henry's decisions, particularly regarding the break with Rome, was significant.
* William Paget: A skilled diplomat and administrator, Paget became a close advisor to Henry during the Reformation. He played a vital role in implementing Henry's religious reforms and managing foreign policy.
Later Years (1540s-1547):
* Thomas Seymour: The brother of Jane Seymour, Henry's third wife, Seymour was a powerful figure in court and a key player in the power struggle after Henry's death.
* Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset: The uncle of Henry's son, Edward VI, Somerset became Lord Protector after Henry's death. He was a strong advocate for Protestant reform and played a key role in the early years of Edward's reign.
Other Notable Figures:
* Sir Thomas Wyatt: A skilled diplomat and poet, Wyatt served as ambassador to several European courts and was a key figure in Henry's foreign policy.
* Richard Rich: A lawyer and politician, Rich played a significant role in the break with Rome and the suppression of religious opposition.
* Stephen Gardiner: Bishop of Winchester, Gardiner was a staunch Catholic who opposed Henry's religious reforms and was imprisoned during the Reformation.
Important Notes:
* Henry's relationship with his advisors was often complex and subject to change. His temper, suspicion, and desire for absolute power meant that individuals could rise and fall quickly depending on their ability to satisfy his demands.
* The advisors listed above represent a diverse group of individuals with different backgrounds, ideologies, and motivations. This diversity reflects the complex and often contradictory nature of Henry's reign.
It is important to understand that this is just a brief overview of some of the key figures in Henry VIII's circle. There were many other advisors and friends who played important roles in his life and reign. Further research can provide deeper insights into their individual contributions and the dynamics of Henry's court.