awarded the English monarch the title “Defender of the Faith” (a designation eventually bequeathed by Parliament to Henry’s heirs). The king’s break with Rome is at least ostensibly well known, though the situational complexities that led to the break—and the birth of the independent Church of England—are often ignored. It has been far easier for many to focus on Henry’s anger against the pope for refusing the annulment he sought in order to pursue a second marriage. There were other key factors