Edward VI became King of England, King of France and Edward I of Ireland on 28 January 1547, and was crowned on 20 February, at nine years of age. Edward was the son of Henry VIII and Jane Seymour and the third monarch of the Tudor dynasty. Edward automatically became Duke of Cornwall upon his birth.

The young prince was a very bright child, able to read and speak Greek and Latin at the age of seven. As Edward was not brought up in the Catholic religion, his education was coloured by the Reformation that had swept through the Netherlands and Germany. He later learned to speak French and German, and, by the age of thirteen, he was writing essays in the latter language. His love of learning and writing led him to found many grammar schools that were named after him (including Guildford's). He also gave the Royal Charter to Sherborne School, which has a claim to be the oldest educational establishment in England, teaching having occurred in the Abbey, which forms part of the school, from the eighth century.

Edward's entire rule was mediated through a council of regency as he never reached maturity. The council was first led by his uncle, Edward Seymour, 1st Duke of Somerset (1547–1549), and then by John Dudley, 1st Duke of Northumberland (1549–1553).

Edward was England's first ruler who was Protestant at the time of his ascension to the throne. Edward VI died at the age of 15 at Greenwich Palace on 6 July 1553. His last words were said to have been: "Oh my Lord God, defend this realm from papistry and maintain Thy true religion." He was buried in Henry VII Lady Chapel at Westminster Abbey by Thomas Cranmer with Protestant rites on 9 August 1553, while his half-sister Mary had Mass said for his soul in the Tower.