Henry VIII was the King of England from 1509, until his death in 1547. As the son of Henry VII, he was the second monarch of the Tudor dynasty, succeeding his father. Known for his assertive and authoritarian rule, he brought about radical changes in the English constitution, notably expanding royal power by establishing the King’s supremacy over the Church of England. This move marked the beginning of the English Reformation. During his reign, he earned the title "Father of the Royal Navy," as he prioritized naval strength, commissioning numerous warships built with advanced technology and fitted with modern artillery. He is also credited with establishing Britain’s first naval dock at Portsmouth. Politically ambitious, Henry VIII was supported by influential figures such as Thomas Wolsey, Thomas More, Thomas Cromwell, Richard Rich, and Thomas Cranmer in implementing his policies. Henry VIII was notorious for his ruthlessness, often quashing dissent by executing opponents, sometimes without a formal trial. He even had several former ministers and close advisors executed when they fell out of favor. Henry is also infamous for his six marriages and numerous scandalous love affairs, which, along with his quest for a male heir, significantly impacted his reign and England's religious landscape.