Edward VI: Fall of Somerset

Question 1

Reasons for Somersets downfall

Answer 1

• Failing policies
• Governed like a dictator
• Imprisonment of Southampton, under-represented nobility and the promotion of non-political adversaries to the privy council - his friends and members of his household.

Question 2

Events leading up to his downfall

Answer 2

• Warwick planned the coup for 1549, had support of Cranmer, Earl of Southampton
• Attempted to gain support of Princess Mary - she refused to get involved.
• Somerset fled to Windsor with Edward but accepted defeat following promise of no treason charges.