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Why did Thomas Becket flee to France in 1164?

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King Henry II and St. Thomas Becket — Henry II Henry II (left) disputing with Thomas Becket (center), miniature from a 14th-century manuscript; in the British Library (Cotton MS. Claudius D.ii).

Thomas Becket fled to France in 1164 primarily to escape King Henry II’s efforts to ruin, imprison, or force his resignation as archbishop of Canterbury.1

The conflict stemmed from the Constitutions of Clarendon, which Henry II issued to restrict ecclesiastical privileges and assert royal control over the church, particularly regarding the trial of "criminous clerks" (clerics who committed crimes). Although Becket initially promised to observe these constitutions, he later repudiated his oath, leading to a severe breakdown in his relationship with the king.23

At the Council of Northampton in October 1164, Henry II summoned Becket to trial on charges of feudal obligation and alleged financial misconduct during his time as chancellor. Facing clear hostility from the king and some of his fellow bishops, Becket fled in disguise to seek refuge with Louis VII of France, beginning a six-year exile.13