The English process that culminated with this separation from Rome began in the 12th century with the fight between St.
Thomas Becket and King Henry II regarding the interference of the Crown in ecclesiastical affairs.
A dispute between Kings and Popes on this topic already existed in that time.
The Kings wanted the Catholic English Hierarchy to obey them and accept their appointments to ecclesiastical offices.
The Popes, basing themselves on the divine institution of the Church, defended the Church's right to full dominium over spiritual matters, in particular over Bishops and the faithful.