The unique Great Bible copies commissioned by Thomas Cromwell and Henry VIII have been reunited after 500 years at the National Library of Wales. These bibles symbolize significant religious reforms in England, particularly regarding the accessibility of scriptures. Cromwell aimed to democratize the Bible for people in English, persuading Henry VIII to support this initiative despite the king's preference for Latin. Although Cromwell was executed shortly after, the bibles survive and represent a pivotal moment in the history of the Church of England, highlighting the intertwining of politics and religion during the Reformation.
The reunion of Henry VIII's and Thomas Cromwell's bibles highlights the historical significance of the Great Bible of 1539, reflecting religious reforms in England.
These unique bibles, commissioned to promote the English scriptures, were crucial in democratizing access to religious texts in England, despite Henry's initial hesitance.
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