One of the six wives of King Henry VIII, Anne of Cleves, had the shortest marriage to the infamous monarch. Anne of Cleves was married to Henry VIII for only six months before their marriage was annulled.

Henry VIII married Anne of Cleves in January 1540 as a political move to form an alliance with the Protestant German states. However, upon meeting her, Henry was disappointed with her appearance and famously referred to her as a "Flanders Mare." The marriage was never consummated, and Henry quickly sought an annulment on the grounds of non-consummation and Anne's pre-contract with the Duke of Lorraine. The marriage was annulled in July 1540, and Anne was given a generous settlement and the title of the King's sister.

Despite the short duration of their marriage, Anne of Cleves outlived Henry VIII and went on to live a comfortable life in England. She was known for her kindness, intelligence, and ability to adapt to her new circumstances.

To learn more about Anne of Cleves and her brief marriage to Henry VIII, visit History Extra for a detailed exploration of her life and marriage. You can also visit Hampton Court Palace for information on Anne of Cleves' time in England and her legacy.

Despite her short-lived marriage to Henry VIII, Anne of Cleves is remembered as a resilient and intelligent woman who made the best of her circumstances. Her story serves as a reminder of the complexities of royal marriages and the power dynamics at play in Tudor England.

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