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Thomas Becket: from murder to martyrdom

Thomas Becket: from murder to martyrdom

Eight hundred and fifty years ago today, the archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket, was brutally murdered in his cathedral. Dr Emily Guerry explains what happened next

Published: December 29, 2020 at 12:06 PM

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Eight hundred and fifty years ago today, on 29 December 1170, the archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket, was brutally murdered in his cathedral, by four knights acting on what they took to be a command from King Henry II. Dr Emily Guerry explains what happened, and why a cult sprang up around Becket almost immediately.

Read more about how Thomas Becket's feud with Henry II turned to murder

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