Oxford University originated when King Henry II ordered students not to attend foreign universities in the 12th century. It grew without an official establishment date, and was recognized as a university in 1231. Governance caused religious riots and the burning of three churchmen at the stake, causing students to leave for other colleges. It was originally Roman Catholic but moved towards Protestantism in 1520. The curriculum focused on the seven liberal arts, lecture-based learning, and Scholastic teaching methods since books were rare.