Edward VI, Somerset and Northumberland Flashcards
What was Somerset’s real name, and his title prior to becoming the Duke of Somerset?
Somerset was called Edward Seymour and his title prior to becoming the Duke of Somerset was the Earl of Hertford.
How did Somerset tighten his control on the council?
The power of the regency council was delegated to Hertford who was appointed Protector.
What happened to Somerset’s brother, and why?
Somerset’s brother was charged with treason because not only did he try to turn Edward VI against his brother, but he also tried to plot with the Earl of Southampton against Somerset.
What was Somerset’s approach to governing?
He governed with members of his own household and by controlling the privy chamber through the appointment of Sir Michael Stanhope as Chief Gentleman.
Who were Somerset’s enemies, and who was the leader of this group?
Warwick, Southampton, the Earl of Arundel and Lord St John wanted to bring Somerset’s control to an end. Warwick was the leader of the coup.
What did the group of Somerset’s enemies do?
Initially, they tried to gain the support of Princess Mary, but she didn’t want to be a part of the conspiracy. By October, there was a stand off in London which meant that Somerset and Edward retreated to Windsor, but Somerset surrendered after being told no treason charges will be out against him.
Who was the Earl of Warwick, and why was he important?
He was an enemy of Somerset who was given the opportunity to strike against him after Somerset’s feebleness response to the rebellions of 1549. He was important in bringing down Somerset in October and presided as the Lord President of the Council.
What did Warwick do to conservatives in the council?
Warwick conducted a second coup against the conservatives, it was assumed he did this to exercise unlimited power, but he may have been fearful of being ejected by the conservatives.
Who has a more measured view of Northumberland? What is this view?
American historian, Dale Hoak, argued that Northumberland was a remarkably able governor because he solved many of the problems inherited from Somerset.
Who was William Paget?
Paget was a diplomat and administrator under Henry VIII and appointed clerk to the Privy Council in 1540 and 1543. He was close to Somerset, but also served Northumberland and Mary. He was excluded from the Privy council by Elizabeth.
What did Somerset try to do, and how did this make Northumberland react (in relation to his style of governing)?
Somerset attempted a counter coup after being readmitted to the council. He attempted to recover his old position but was outwitted by Northumberland. Somerset was executed which showed Northumberland to act in a less conciliar way. Assumed enemies (eg. Paget) were removed from council and the dry stamp was in control of Northumberland and his henchman, Gates.
What was the Devyse?
This was a plan to change the succession from allowing Mary to come to the throne who would restore Catholicism and consequently threaten Northumberland’s life. Edward was prepared to exclude both his half sisters from reign as both were considered illegitimate. Lady Jane Grey was a preferred monarch by Northumberland, as she was his son’s wife and a Protestant.
What was Somerset’s policy towards Scotland?
Somerset had an aggressive approach to foreign policy in Scotland as an attempt to reassert Edward I’s claim to the throne. His aim was to marry Edward VI to Mary Queen of Scots. Scotland was Somerset’s main priority, as opposed to Henry.
What happened when Somerset attacked Scotland?
Scots were defeated at the Battle of Pinkie, 1547; but the forts at the borders of Scotland were too expensive to garrison and the cooperation between France and Scotland underestimated. The French relieved Edinburgh and gained control of Mary who was married to the Dauphin of France.
How did France create further problems for Somerset / England?
In 1549, there was a threat of invasion of the French to southern England at Somerset’s most vulnerable time after rebellions against his autocratic style of government.
