| A scholar and statesman, son of a judge and himself trained in the law, More served Henry VIII in a variety of capacities including treasurer of the exchequer and chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. In the House of Commons, More held the position of speaker; he was also sent to France to meet with Kings Francis I and Charles V. In 1529, he became Lord Chancellor, but resigned that position in 1532, disapproving of Henry's actions against the pope and the established church. By 1534, Henry had become head of the new English church. Loyal to the pope and the church, More could not recognize this act and was thus tried for treason, convicted and ultimately executed by beheading. In 1935, he was elevated to sainthood. |
