Elizabeth's Foreign Policy

Question 1

What style was Elizabeth’s foreign policy? (4 points)

Answer 1

1. Inspired by Henry VII
2. Defensive rather than aggressive.
3. Used marriage negotiations to form alliances.
4. Walshingham and Cecil wanted to pursue a Protestant policy, but Elizabeth was reluctant.

Question 2

What were the general aims of Elizabeth’s foreign policy? (6 points)

Answer 2

1. Avoid war.
2. Preserve England’s independence from major powers.
3. Deal with the threat of Mary Queen of Scots.
4. Diversify English trade.
5. Regain Calais.
6. Keep France and Spain at a similar level of power.

Question 3

Aims of Elizabeth’s policy towards France?

Answer 3

1. Prevent the Catholic Guise from dominating France, without being seen as supporting the Hugenot rebels.
2. Develop closer ties with France as an ally against Spain.
3. Prevent French expansion into the Netherlands.
4. Recover Calais.
5. Avoid war with a united France and Scotland.

Question 4

Aims of Elizabeth’s foreign policy towards Scotland?

Answer 4

1. Reduce the threat of Mary.
2. Reduce Guise influence.
3. Keep some English influence over the Scottish court through the Protestant nobles.
4. Avoid war with a united France and Scotland.

Question 5

Did Elizabeth achieve her aims in Scotland?

Answer 5

Yes:

• The 1560 Treaty of Edinburgh created a regime favourable to the English.
• Mary Queen of Scots was controlled by Protestant Lords.
• When the Lords felt they were losing influence, Mary was forced to abdicate in favour of James and a Council.

No:

• MQS became a catalyst for Catholic plots.
• In 1570 Elizabeth was forced to intervene in a civil war after the Earl of Moray was killed.

Conclusion:
James was put on the throne, which lead to a peaceful succession after Elizabeth died. Scotland was a constant nuisance, but treatable.

Question 6

Did Elizabeth achieve her aims in France?

Answer 6

1.