Early Life and Background
Thomas Becket was born around 1119 in London, into a wealthy merchant family. His father, Gilbert Becket, was a prosperous Norman merchant, and his mother came from a similar background. Thomas received an excellent education, which was uncommon for many at the time. He attended Merton Priory and later studied in Paris, becoming well-versed in canon law and theology.
Early in his career, Becket worked as a clerk for Theobald of Bec, Archbishop of Canterbury. Theobald recognized Thomas’s talents and helped him rise through the ecclesiastical ranks. Becket became a trusted aide to Theobald and was ordained as a priest around 1149.
Rise to Power: Chancellor to Archbishop
Thomas Becket’s administrative skills and loyalty brought him to the attention of King Henry II. In 1155, Henry appointed Becket as his Lord Chancellor, a senior royal official responsible for the administration of justice and the king’s seal. In this role, Becket was a close confidant of Henry and worked to strengthen royal authority.
However, in 1162, Henry II surprised many by appointing Becket as Archbishop of Canterbury, the highest ecclesiastical position in England. This appointment was initially intended to secure greater royal control over the church, as Henry expected Becket to continue his loyal service to the crown. shutdown123