A2 FP1 : Edward VI Problems of Succession

Question 1

When did Edward VI die?

Answer 1

6th July 1553

Question 2

Why didn’t Northumberland want Mary to succeed Edward?

Answer 2

She was a devout Catholic with close links to Charles V (they were cousins).

Question 3

What 2 ideas did Northumberland try to use to change the succession?

Answer 3

• Mary had been made illegitimate under Henry VIII even though this had been reserved her power was damaged.
• Henry VIII said his children must not succeed, however didn’t exclude the children of his sister Mary. Northumberland therefore made changes so that Mary’s grandchild Lady Jane Gray would succeed.

Edward agreed to this as he wanted Protestantism to succeed.

Question 4

Was the change in succession successful?

Answer 4

No :
* Edward VI dies before the plans could be completed
* Northumberland underestimated the power and support for Mary

Question 5

What were the events in the change of succession?

Answer 5

• On 14 July Northumberland marched into suffolk with an army of 2000 men (Mary had crowned herself Queen at Framlingham Castle)
• His troops and Privy Council desert him
• Privy Council hastily proclaims Mary as Queen
• Northumberland was arrested and tried.

Question 6

What was significant about Mary’s success?

Answer 6

The ease at which Mary upheld her right to the throne shows the growing stability of the State and the nation. Potential political crisis had been avoided because the majority of the nation supported the rule of law and rightful succession.