Council Of The North - GCSE History Definition

The Council of the North was an administrative body established in 16th century England, primarily to strengthen and enforce royal authority in the northern regions of the country. Created by King Henry VIII in 1537, following the rebellion known as the Pilgrimage of Grace, its main purpose was to ensure peace, implement justice, and oversee law and order in the North of England, particularly in areas prone to lawlessness and unrest. The Council acted as an extension of the royal government, addressing issues like border disputes and crime, while also implementing the monarch's policies. It played a significant role in maintaining stability in a region distant from the central power in London, until it was ended in the 17th century.