Chapter 8- The Impact of the Reformation Abroad and at Court

Question 1

What were Henry’s aims in foreign policy?

Answer 1

1. Regain control of the former French territories. Would gain support from nobility. Henry hoped to collect the French pension which had been paid to English kings every year in compensation for the lands lost by England in France
2. To establish himself as an equal with Francis I and Charles V. He wanted to recreate the glory of Henry V
3. Maintain links with the Netherlands. Important because of English cloth trade which was dependent on Antwerp market. Charles V controlled Antwerp.
4. To secure his family’s inheritance. Maintaining links with other royal families in Europe through marriage alliances.

Question 2

What was the relationship like between France and the Holy Roman Empire between 1529 and 1536?

Answer 2

There was peace, albeit an uneasy one. This changed after 1536 when war broke out between the two powers.

Question 3

What made Cromwell search for allies in Germany?

Answer 3

The declaration of a 10 year truce between France and the HRE known as the Treaty of Nice. This was in 1588. Also Henry’s excommunication. The excommunication was accompanied by the withdrawal of French and imperial ambassadors from London. Cromwell believed that the Pope was encouraging Francis and Charles to support a crusade against England.

Question 4

Who did Cromwell hold talks with?

Answer 4

Several Protestants German princes who were in a group called the Schmalkaldic League. It had been organised to defend Protestantism against the militant Catholicism of Charles V. Cleves was not in the league but the Duchy was hostile to the authority of the holy Roman Emperor.

Question 5

How did England and Europe’s relationship change after the reformation?

Answer 5

Created distance.