Elizabeth Chapter 1- Elizabeth and her court Flashcards
When did Queen Elizabeth I reign?
from 1558-1603
Why was Elizabeth I’s rise to the throne unexpected?
-Her mother, Anne Boleyn, was executed for treason.
-Her elder sister, Queen Mary I, viewed her as a threat.
-She was the middle child of Henry VIII, with both siblings ahead of her in succession.
What was Elizabeth’s upbringing like?
-Educated & raised in the royal household.
-Learned to navigate the dangers of court life carefully.
What was the structure of power in Elizabethan England?
-The queen had authority but relied on advisors.
-Power was held by key trusted individuals, especially privy councillors
How did Elizabeth I use patronage to ensure loyalty?
-Awarded titles, land & monopolies.
-Provided powerful positions and money-making opportunities.
-Exchanged these for obedience and support from courtiers.
How old was Elizabeth when she became queen?
25
When did Mary reign?
1553-1558
What was the royal court in Elizabethan England?
-Made up of officials, servants & advisors around Elizabeth
-Centre of power & source of trends/fashions
-Included the Privy Council
-Justices of the Peace & Parliament were not part of the court
Lord Lieutenants
-Appointed by the queen
-Responsible for running a particular area of the country
-Responsible for raising a militia to fight for the queen if needed
-Many also served on the Privy Council
What was the role of Justices of the Peace in Elizabethan England?
-Several in each county
-Responsible for maintaining order
-Enforced the law
What was Parliament’s role in Elizabethan England?
-Made up of House of Lords & House of Commons
-Influenced tax & passed laws
-The queen could call or ignore Parliament’s advice
What was the Privy Council’s role?
-Managed daily running of the country, dealing with all policy areas
-Elizabeth had to appoint powerful landowners to prevent rebellion
-If council was united (almost impossible for Queen to go against their wishes)
-Rarely united due to ambitious rivals
-Led by the Secretary of State
Who were two important Secretaries of State during Elizabeth’s reign?
-William Cecil
-Francis Walsingham