Edward VI, Somerset & Northumberland Flashcards
How old was Edward VI when he ascended the throne?
He was 9
Who was Edward Seymour to Edward VI, and why was he important?
Edward Seymour was Edward’s uncle.
He promoted himself, becoming the Duke of Somerset.
He overthrew the Regency Council set up for Edward, and practically ruled himself as Lord Protector from 1547-9.
Why did Edward VI’s have a difficult inheritance?
- Country was divided on religious grounds.
- Crown finances had been ruined by Henry VIII’s aggressive foreign policy.
- To fund wars, the coinage had been debased leading to an increase in inflation and decline in real incomes for many.
- The crown had compromised it’s long term security by selling off the monastic lands (cheaply), in order to raise money quickly.
How many members were there in the Regency Council that Henry VIII set up for Edward?
16 members, supported by a further 12 who were required to assist if needed.
28 members.
When did Edward Seymour become Lord Protector?
1547, a few weeks after Edward VI became King.
How did the Duke of Somerset control the Privy Council?
He appointed his supporter, Sir Michael Stanhope, as Chief Gentleman of the Council.
This created resentment in the council.
Who was Thomas Seymour and why did he create a problem?
Somerset’s brother and Edward VI’s other uncle.
He sought more power, so Somerset appointed him to the peerage.
Thomas was still ambitious for power, he attempted to marry princess Elizabeth and plotted against Somerset.
He was executed for treason in 1549.
Who was Somerset’s most important enemy?
The Duke of Northumberland.
Before Somerset surrendered, where did he and Edward retreat to?
Windsor.
Was Northumberland a Conservative or a Reformer, and why was this significant?
Northumberland was a Conservative, this was significant because he was also Catholic, and wanted to move the country back towards Catholicism.
When did the Duke of Northumberland become Lord President?
1550
How did Northumberland ensure his own control over the court?
He appointed his own hardman, Sir John Gates, as Vice Chamberlain of the household.
Who was Lady Jane Grey to Northumberland?
Lady Jane Grey was Northumberland’s daughter in law.
She had a weak claim to the throne, she was Henry VII’s great-granddaughter, and a Protestant.
Northumberland wanted her on the throne so that his son Guildford Dudley could become king.
When were Mary and Elizabeth declared illegitimate?
June 1553
When did Edward die, and why was his death significant?
He died on 6 July 1553, before Parliament could grant him his wishes of ratifying the new succession.
