Chapter 2 - Frequency

Question 1

Why did frequency in rebellion decline in the Tudor period?

Answer 1

• The decline in dynastic unrest
• The decline in religious unrest
• The decline in social and economic unrest
• Government action and the decline in unrest

Question 2

Why did dynastic unrest decline?

Answer 2

• Most English rebellions occurred at the beginning of the period, when the Tudor dynasty was very vulnerable.
• Henry VII faced five serious revolts, three of which aimed to overthrow him.
• Most of the dynastic and political factors that had underpinned Yorkist rebellions began to lose their impetus as the Tudors systematically removed pretenders and claimants.
• As late as 1541, Henry VIII was still eliminating members of the Pole family, who are descended from the royal house of Plantagenet, but thereafter there were no more members of the House of York waiting to claim the throne.
• As the Tudors became more secure, alternative claimants died out and people grew accustomed to their rule.

Question 3

Why did religious unrest decline?

Answer 3

• The Reformation was a source of provocation to many English, and religious issues in 1536 and 1549, and to a lesser extent in 1569, lay behind rebellions.
• The Elizabethan church settlement of 1559 was a moderate policy that satisfied most religious groups.
• Moreover, the government and the church held back from strictly enforcing its terms.
• After 1549, religion ceased to be a major issue worthy of rebellion.

Question 4

Why did social and economic unrest decline?

Answer 4

• Social and economic problems, which could frequently be a source of discontent, peaked in the 1540s.
• Although difficulties remained for the rest of the period, issues such as enclosure, excessive taxation, hyperinflation and poor tenant-landlord relations all eased.

Question 5

What impact did government action have on the decline in unrest?

Answer 5

• Issues of major concern came to be aired and often resolved at court, in Council and in Parliament.
• After 1570, Elizabeth faced only one rebellion of note, and this lasted for less than 12 hours.
• A major factor that prevented the outbreak of disturbances in the second half of the 16th century was the measures taken by Mary and Elizabeth.
• The poor and unemployed were helped rather than punished
• JPs and Lords Lieutenant kept a closer eye on local tensions and endeavoured to overcome potential difficulties before they got out of hand, and people were encouraged to resolve their problems by peaceful means rather than by acts of lawlessness and violence.