Royalty & Nobility · 16th Century
Henry VIII’s Last Words
“All is lost! Monks! Monks! Monks!”— Henry VIII, January 28, 1547
Who Was Henry VIII?
Henry VIII was the most famous Tudor monarch, known for his six wives, his break with the Catholic Church creating the Church of England, and his imposing physical presence and volatile temperament.
The Final Moments
Henry's last words are traditionally recorded as a lament about the monasteries he had dissolved. He died at Whitehall Palace, grossly obese and suffering from multiple ailments.
Are These Words Verified?
The 'Monks! Monks! Monks!' quote is likely apocryphal, appearing in later Protestant propaganda. Contemporary accounts from courtiers present at his death do not record these words and vary significantly.
Sources
- other John Foxe 'Acts and Monuments'
- biography Various Victorian-era histories
Legacy
Henry VIII's break with Rome permanently changed England's religious landscape. His dissolution of the monasteries redistributed enormous wealth throughout English society.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Henry VIII’s last words?
“All is lost! Monks! Monks! Monks!”
How did Henry VIII die?
Henry VIII died on January 28, 1547 at the age of 55. Cause of death: Possibly renal and hepatic failure.
Were Henry VIII’s last words documented?
The 'Monks! Monks! Monks!' quote is likely apocryphal, appearing in later Protestant propaganda. Contemporary accounts from courtiers present at his death do not record these words and vary significantly.
More from Royalty & Nobility
See all →
Marie Antoinette
“Pardon me, sir, I did not do it on purpose.”
Napoleon Bonaparte
“France, armée, tête d'armée, Joséphine. (France, army, head of the army, Joséphine.)”
Princess Diana
“My God, what's happened?”
Anne Boleyn
“O Lord God have pity on my soul.”