The reign of Henry VII, which lasted from 1485-1509, is a transition between early modern and medieval periods, as he not only improved the ideas of his predecessors but also brought the new ideas for staying in power. Henry controlled the Parliament of his country for implementing his policies that was not realized at time of previous kings. Some rulers had a great dependence on Parliament, others treated it with contempt, but Henry VII found middle ground appointing loyal people from the middle class, who were able to channel his interests through Parliament. Unlike the previous medieval rulers, who depended mainly on noblemen in state deals, Henry raised the crown far above the nobles as a typical English nobleman was always an initiator of civil war and riots. After securing his position as king, he ruled effectively without much assistance from Parliament, thus making it a “rubber stamp” for approval of king’s policies. For promotion of general welfare Henry made a fundamental change from feudalism to a policy of government-directed economic development, he enacted fiscally prudent policies and restored the exchequer’s fortunes. His economic system reforms laid the foundation for transformation of his country into a modern nation. Through government-directed improvements in technology and infrastructure he tried to increase people’s living standards and their productivity. By using his right to appoint senior officials and imposing fines on those who violated the laws, Henry VII exploited some noblemen’s wealth. The later half of his reign became very unpopular, because many were unhappy and disaffected by high fines and taxes, his obsession with government and financially prudent policies. This king has not managed to completely transform England into a new modern European monarchy, however, Henry laid its basis for his heir. (Francis Bacon et al, 5-24)
Works Cited
Francis Bacon&Brian Vickers. "The History of the Reign of King Henry VII and Selected Works". 1998, Cambridge University Press. Print
