Thomas Becket was originally a friend and advisor to King Henry II of England. However, after being appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, Becket began asserting the rights and independence of the church, coming into conflict with the King's desire for power over the clergy. This led to Becket being exiled, though he later returned. In 1170, knights loyal to the angry King killed Becket in Canterbury Cathedral, making him a martyr for the church's independence from royal power. King Henry was later forced to publicly repent to regain acceptance after Becket's assassination.