1601 Essex Flashcards
Give an outline of Essex’s rebellion
Essex was a courtier and former favourite of Elizabeth. His attempt to raise London against the dominance of the Cecil faction lasted only 12 hours. Essex was captured and executed
How was dynastic succession linked to Essex’s rebellion?
The Earl of Essex wanted to force Elizabeth to acknowledge James VI of Scotland as heir. He hoped this would gain him James’ favour. He also wanted Elizabeth to remove other councillors so he was the ‘kingmaker’
How was faction linked to Essex’s rebellion?
The Earl of Essex had been suspended from the Privy Council and banned from court, where Robert Cecil dominated. His position was in decline and he was unable to provide rewards for his supporters such as the Earl of Southampton
Which nobles were involved in Essex’s rebellion?
Earl of Essex Earl of Southampton Earl of Sussex Earl of Rutland Lord Cromwell Lord Mounteagle Lord Sandes
What was the subsidiary cause of Essex’s rebellion?
He had also lost the main source of his income, a monopoly on the sale of sweet wine
What was the outcome of Essex’s rebellion?
Essex is irresolute and has almost no support – certainly none from the commons. His aim is not to challenge monarchy but merely to restore himself to favour. He is executed
Why did Essex’s rebellion fail?
Poor and unrealistic plan, out of touch with political reality
Essex badly over-estimated his popularity
Good Tudor intelligence network got wind of the plot
London commons were not sympathetic to the plotters and did not rise in support of Essex as anticipated
Essex’s power base in Wales was too far from London to lend aid
Essex had fallen out of favour with the queen (who preferred the Cecils), and she was not prepared to save him
