Allen, Cardinal William

1532-1594

A leader in the counter-Reformation movement, Allen was was a vocal opponent of English Protestant policy and the break with Rome. He was exiled from England in 1565 and founded a seminary in Douai, France, to train English (Catholic) priests. He helped translate the Douai-Reim Bible and was the prime force behind the first Jesuit mission to England in 1580.

Allen was a strong supporter of King Philip of Spain against Elizabeth I - though his support may have owed a great deal to his desire to be named Archbishop of Canterbury if Philip's Spanish Armada succeeded! He was created a Cardinal in 1587.

Time period(s): Tudor

Tags: Cardinal William Allen   Spanish Armada   Elizabeth I   English Reformation