Elizabeth England c1568- 1603: The Difficulties of a Female Ruler Flashcards
What age and how old did Elizabeth I come to the throne?
1558 at age 25
Why was it unclear who would succeed Elizabeth I?
She was the last living child of Henry VII and had no children of her own.
What drew attention to the uncertainty of England’s future in 1562?
Elizabeth I nearly died of smallpox
Why did many Catholics believe Elizabeth I was illegitimate to the throne?
Henry’s marriage to Elizabeth’s mother wasn’t recognised in Catholicism.
What was the name for an extreme form of Protestantism?
Puritanism
Why would puritan control of Elizabeth church damage the religious settlement?
It would be made too extreme.
Give two examples of Catholic countries that wanted influence over England.
Spain and France
Why was the Netherlands a key area of tension during the Elizabethan era?
The protestant population was in conflict with its Spanish rulers and Elizabeth had to decide whether to be involved or not.
Why did Elizabeth need to raise taxes in England?
The country was short on money especially after Henry VII’s reign.
Why would raising taxes be very unpopular in England?
Poverty was widespread.
Who did many Catholics see as an alternative Queen of England?
Mary Queen of Scots
When did Elizabeth face a major revolt in Ireland?
1559
Why was getting married seen as an important duty of a Monarch?
To produce a heit and cement alliances.
What were 4 reasons Elizabeth I would be against marriage?
- Loss of authority
- Birth was a risk
- Both her father’s and sisters experience with marriage had been bad
- Able to use the possibility of marriage to do with important leaders
List 4 of Elizabeth I’s potential suitors:
- Francis, Duke of Anjou and Alençon
- King Philip II of Spain
- Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester
- The Earl of Essex
Who was Francis Duke of Anjou and Alençon?
The French kings brother and heir to the French throne.
How old was Elizabeth I when marriage was proposed with Francis?
46
Why could it have been bad for Elizabeth I to marry Francis at 46?
She was probably beyond having children and the childless marriage could result in England falling under French control.
Why were many important figures in Elizabets court against Elizabeth I marrying Francis?
He was Catholic
Who was one of the most wealthiest and Powerful men in the world during the Elizabethan era?
King Philip II of Spain
Who was King Philip II of Spain previously married to before proposing to Elizabeth I?
Queen Mary I, Elizabeth’s sister.
Why would many members of Elizabeth court be against I’s marriage to King Philip II of Spain?
He was Catholic
Why did many assume that Robert Dudley and Elizabeth I were in love?
They were childhood friend and he was Elizabeth favourite throughout her reign.
What was Robert Dudley a member of?
The Privy Council
When was Robert Dudley free to marry Elizabeth I?
Once his wife had died
Why was it nearly impossible for Robert Dudley to marry Elizabeth I?
There was scandals surrounding his wife’s death and rumours of his involvement.
Finish the sentence: Elizabeth said she was married to…
‘The kingdom of England’
Why did Elizabeth I say she remained single for?
To focus totally on rolling her country and keep England secure and independent.