In 1532, King Henry VIII of England gave Anne Boleyn the noble title of Marquess of Pembroke. This act was highly unusual, as few women in England were granted such honors in their own right. At the time, Anne was not yet queen but was engaged to Henry.
The king’s choice was meant to show his affection and commitment to Anne which faded very quickly and ended with Henry VIII having Anne mercilessly executed on false charges. The title also gave Anne wealth, land, and a place in the peerage, allowing her to stand alongside princes and lords at court ceremonies. The move shocked many nobles and courtiers, since Henry was still married to Catherine of Aragon, and his relationship with Anne was very controversial.
By raising Anne’s position, Henry made it clear she was to become more than just his companion. Within a year, Anne married Henry, and soon after, she was crowned queen. This event was a turning point, as Anne’s rise helped bring about England’s break with the Catholic Church. Her new status marked the beginning of great political and religious change.