Treaty of Bruges (1521) facts for kids

The Treaty of Bruges was a secret agreement made in 1521. It was signed between England and Spain during a big European conflict called the Italian War of 1521-1526. This treaty aimed to set a date for England and Spain to start a war against France together.

The main people involved were King Henry VIII of England and King Charles V of Spain. Charles V was also the Holy Roman Emperor. Important representatives signed the treaty for them. Cardinal Thomas Wolsey was the main person for England. Margaret of Savoy represented the interests of Charles V. The Pope also had to agree to the treaty.

What Was the Treaty of Bruges?

This treaty was a secret plan for war against France. England and Spain agreed to attack France by March 1523. The agreement said that starting from February 1522, both kings could travel freely. They could go between England and the lands Charles V ruled in the Low Countries. This was so they could gather money and soldiers for the war. The treaty suggested having 3,000 soldiers to protect King Henry VIII and Emperor Charles V when they traveled.

A Royal Marriage Promise

The treaty also included a plan for a marriage. It was agreed that Charles V would marry Princess Mary. She was the youngest daughter of King Henry VIII. However, Charles V later broke off this engagement in 1525. Henry VIII partly agreed to this decision.

The "Great Enterprise" Plan

Historian John Guy explains that the treaty planned a "Great Enterprise." This was a big military effort between the two allies. Charles V was to fight against French lands in Italy. At the same time, Henry VIII would invade northern France. Both leaders agreed to land with a large force. This included 10,000 cavalry (soldiers on horseback) and 30,000 foot soldiers. The treaty also said England could use some of Charles V's soldiers for this number.

The allies expected to achieve their goals by November. If they didn't, further actions would be taken, possibly by the Pope. Charles V was even expected to finish his efforts in Italy by May 15, 1523.

How the Treaty Played Out

During this alliance, England often felt doubtful about Spain. This was because Ferdinand II of Aragon, Charles V's grandfather, had let the English down in 1512. The suggested start date for the war was 1523. However, a small English army attacked Picardy in 1522. This attack was led by the Earl of Surrey. It didn't have much success or important victories.

The main attack was delayed until 1524. This delay happened because of the 1522 Treaty of Windsor between Henry VIII and Charles V. This might have been done to make France spend more money fighting in Italy. In 1525, the "Great Enterprise" plan was given up. Cardinal Wolsey and King Henry's foreign policy changed. They shifted their focus from Spain to France. This new direction was set in the 1525 Treaty of the More.