3. Social and Economic developments Flashcards
What economic and social state was the country in when Elizabeth acceded the throne?
Elizabeth acceded the throne at a time of economic and social trouble.
This was caused by bad harvests, high mortality, high taxation, and a cut in wages for many.
How did Elizabeth respond to the initial social and economic issues?
Various pieces of legislation were proposed in Elizabeth’s first parliament.
However, none were passed through law.
Government had to resort to issuing instructions to JPs and royal proclamations.
These tactics were seen as an admission of government impotence.
How did local authorities attempted to deal with social and economic issues?
Implementation of the Statute of Artificers (1563).
What did the Statute of Artificers enforce?
Compulsory labour
A minimum period of 1 year for the hire of workmen in which they could not be dismissed
Setting of minimum wage rates by JPs
Why did the Statute of Artificers fail?
Government lacked power of enforcement.
There was no army/ group set up to investigate wage rates in every district.
JPs found it difficult to manage their counties.
What were the main causes of poverty?
Increase in population, wages for laborers were low, prices were rising, harvest failures lead to food shortages, reformation had destroyed the church institution that was responsible for providing poor relief
How did Elizabeth stabilise the currency?
Early on, a scheme was announced for the withdrawal of debased coins and replacement with minted coins.
The government did not resort to debasement during the rest of the century.
Prices still rose but the government was no longer responsible.
