[Slyfox]

In England the terror began with Henry VIII dismantling the monasteries. He took everything that was considered Catholic - hospitals, schools, chapels, etc. He even took trusts that had been set up to educate poor boys. The people closest to him feared for their lives, because he had the "right" to their lives and really could do anything he wanted. He had a compliant administration.

There was a little known event that took place one year after Thomas More was executed. It was called the Pilgrimage of Grace and it was unlike any other demonstration or uprising. Everyone had to take an oath promising that they would do no harm to others. The grassroots leaders from the north began to gather others and they marched towards London. It did end badly for the prime leaders.

George Washington is a direct descendent of the real leader, Robert Aske.

[Oratam]

Thanks for the additional info. It's a fascinating period of history I need to devote some time to.

Was GW aware of his ancestor's role and if so, did he remark on it?