King Edward VI

After the death of Edward’s father, Henry, Edward became king. Edward only ruled for nine years, and died when he turned eighteen. Edward was born in 1537 and started his education at six years old with private tutors. Edward’s mother was Jane Seymour, Henry’s third wife. Edward was interested in the military and was influenced by Protestantism. He was called the British Josiah because he was so young. When he reigned, it was a time of unrest stemming both from religion and politics. The kingdom wasn’t always in his control as he co-ruled with his father’s council. He didn’t have considerable influence over the church’s development. He continued the separation his father had made, and made the church more protestant. An important archbishop who helped supporting these reforms was Tomas Cranmer. Edward lived a short life lasting only 18 years.