Catherine of Aragon
Catherine of Aragon was a powerful woman of the Renaissance era due to her status as the first wife of King Henry VIII. She was married in 1509. During her marriage, she served as a mediator between England and Spain. She also represented England in negotiations with the Catholic Church. Catherine was also known for her piety and her support of the arts. She was a patron of several artists and writers. However, her husband Henry sought to have the marriage annulled in order to marry Anne Boleyn. When the Pope refused to grant the annulment, Henry broke with the Catholic Church. He declared himself head of the Church of England. Catherine was eventually divorced and cast aside. But she remained a powerful figure in England due to her status as the mother of Princess Mary I, who would later become Queen of England.