Technically, this may have been true, as it was Cardinal Wolsey who proclaimed the Grant, but it is very unlikely indeed that Wolsey's actions took place without Henry's knowledge and tacit approval. The failure of the Amicable Grant was one of the first events that led eventually to Wolsey's fall from power.

Why was the Amicable Grant unpopular?

This was partly because it was brought to Parliament by Thomas Wolsey, who was becoming increasingly unpopular. Widespread passive resistance, with a growing threat of armed resistance, meant little money was raised and the project was dropped. King Henry VIII now lacked funds for his war in France and made peace.

How much money did the Amicable Grant make?

Thomas Wolsey proposed an 'Amicable Grant' hoping to gain an estimated £800,000 for the proposed war. However, this 'Amicable Grant' was not passed through Parliament, rather it was proposed as a means for people to give monetary 'gifts' to fund the King's war.