The English prelate St. Thomas Becket (ca. 1128-1170) was murdered because of his defense of the special privileges of the clergy and his opposition to the ecclesiastical policy of King Henry II.

Thomas Becket (who called himself "Thomas of London") was the son of Gilbert Becket, merchant of London. He was educated at Merton Priory and later in London and Paris. Before 1143 he entered the service of Theobald, Archbishop of Canterbury, who recognized his abilities and allowed him to study at Bologna and Auxerre. Becket became archdeacon of Canterbury, canon of St. Paul's and of Lincoln, and provost of Beverley, in addition to other benefices.

Early in 1155 Becket became chancellor to the young king Henry II and was soon his trusted adviser; as well as controlling the King's secretariat, he raised money for the King's wars, accompanied the King's armies, conducted diplomatic negotiations, and had charge of the...