Domestic policy: justice and the maintenance of order (2) Flashcards
What could problems with law and order lead to?
Uprisings or rebellions and Henry was always concerned that potential enemies might exploit trouble to challenge his authority.
Who did the king rely on?
Well-placed members of the nobility to exercise power on his behalf.
What was a prime responsibility for the king?
The maintenance of law and order.
Where was magnate control largely confined?
In the north of England.
How did Henry solve a problem?
By releasing the Yorkist Earl of Surrey from the Tower, where he had been imprisoned since the Battle of Bosworth, to rule the north on his behalf.
What was the task of Henry’s employment of a spying network?
To report on magnate performance as well as with the imposition of bonds and recognizances.
At a local level what did henry rely on?
Justice of the peace (JPs) to maintain law and order in the countryside.
When were JPs appointed?
On a county to county basis.
How many times a year did JPs meet?
4 times a year to administer justice through the quarter sessions.
How were powers and responsibilities of JPs increased?
Through various Acts of Parliament.
What were JPs responsible for?
Routine administration such as: tax assessments, alehouse regulation, the investigation of complaints against local officials, and the maintenance of law and order.
Give a way Henry VII restored order and law?
Largely through forcing many of his subjects to take out bonds and recognisances.
What were some bonds and recognisances a result of?
Genuine debts owed to the Crown.
