Thomas Cromwell is one of the best known and most controversial figures in British history. His rise from humble beginnings to the very apex of British power politics in the sixteenth century is a fascinating tale of strength, willpower, a driving vision and, of course, a modicum of luck. Whatever one's opinion of Cromwell, there is no doubt that he had a great influence on the court of Henry VIII in the 1530s. Further, his lasting influence on the way that government is conducted in England, as well as on the make-up of the English church, render him one of the most important non-regal figures in English history. Cromwell was chiefly responsible for dissolving the monasteries and reforming the way in which the poor were treated; two major aspects of Tudor history. He was also heavily involved in the machinations surrounding the downfalls of two of Henry's queens. This brief introduction explores the character and achievements of Thomas Cromwell; was he totally evil and scheming, as so many commentators would have us believe, or was there another side to the man?