Thomas Cranmer

Thomas Cranmer (1489–1556) was a key figure in the English Reformation and the architect of the Church of England’s doctrinal foundation. As Archbishop of Canterbury, he played a crucial role in organising Henry VIII's break from Rome, particularly by helping to justify the annulment of Henry’s marriage to Catherine of Aragon. Cranmer was a leading proponent of Reformed theology and was instrumental in the creation of the Book of Common Prayer, which shaped Anglican worship. Though initially supportive of Henry VIII, he later helped establish more Protestant reforms under Edward VI. After the Roman Catholic restoration under Mary I, Cranmer was arrested, tried for heresy, and burned at the stake, remaining steadfast in his Protestant beliefs to the end.