Thomas Becket, also known as Saint Thomas of Canterbury,  was born 21 December 1119 or 1120 and died 29 December 1170. He served as Lord Chancellor from 1155 to 1162, and then notably as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1162 until his death in 1170.  He engaged in conflict with Henry II, King of England, over the rights and privileges of the Church and was murdered by followers of the King in Canterbury Cathedral.  Soon after his death, he was canonized by Pope Alexander III.  He is venerated as a saint and martyr for the Catholic Church.