Henry VIII was the King of England from 1509 to 1547, known for his significant influence on English history, particularly regarding the English Reformation. His desire to annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon, which the Pope rejected, led him to break from the Roman Catholic Church and establish the Church of England, thereby initiating a series of religious reforms. Henry VIII's actions resulted in the dissolution of monasteries and changes in church practices, which had lasting effects on English society, politics, and religion. His reign also saw the consolidation of royal power and significant cultural developments.