John Bale (21 November 1495 – November 1563) is an English churchman, historian and controversialist, and Bishop of Ossory.

He writes the oldest known historical verse drama in English (on the subject of King John), and develops and publishes a very extensive list of the works of British authors down to his own time, just as the monastic libraries are being dispersed.

His unhappy disposition and habit of quarreling earns him the nickname "bilious Bale".