Why did Anne of Cleves divorce Henry VIII?

Anne of Cleves had been chosen as a suitable bride for Henry VIII because Thomas Cromwell, Henry's chief minister, saw the benefit in building links with the Schmalkaldic League at a time when Francis I of France and Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, were best buddies. read more

The Divorce. Although Anne of Cleves quickly became popular with the English people, and the public perception was that the marriage was happy, Henry VIII was not a happy man and wanted someone to pay for his predicament. Thomas Cromwell, the man who had orchestrated the marriage, was the man to pay the price. read more

Anne of Cleves did not divorce Henry VIII. It was Henry that had the marriage annulled. Although Henry had final approval, this was an arranged marriage. He had representatives go to Cleves to meet with and talk to Anne’s older sister. The King offered up his younger sister, Anne. Since photography was not available, an artist painted a portrait. read more

Best Answer: Henry saw a painting by Hans Holbein of Anne of Cleves, and she seemed quite pretty. But when he saw her in real person, she appeared to him as ugly. He still married her because she was the daughter of John of Cleves, a very imported German. But he was soon sorry and divorced her the same year. read more