Elizabeth's illegitimately

Question 1

Why was Elizabeth not seen as legitimate by many Catholics? (cousin)

Answer 1

Mary, Queen of Scots, was a viable alternative candidate for the throne and had a direct claim, as Henry’s
great-niece. She was also a Catholic.

Question 1

Why was Elizabeth not seen as legitimate by many Catholics? (parentage)

Answer 1

Henry VIII’s marriage to Anne Boleyn (Elizabeth’s mother) was not seen as official. In an act of Parliament, Henry VIII had previously declared Elizabeth illegitimate and this act had never been repealed, which gave her opponents grounds to challenge her claim to the throne.

Question 2

What other problems were there when Elizabeth became queen? (money)

Answer 2

When Elizabeth became queen, the crown was in a huge amount of debt, which made it difficult for Elizabeth to raise an army or manage state affairs.

Question 3

What other problems were there when Elizabeth became queen? (religion)

Answer 3

There was religious unrest in England in 1558 and Elizabeth needed to work out a religious settlement that would satisfy Catholics and Protestants.

Question 4

What other problems were there when Elizabeth became queen? (war)

Answer 4

England was at war with France and there were French troops stationed in Scotland when Elizabeth became
queen.

Question 5

What other problems were there when Elizabeth became queen? (identity)

Answer 5

Elizabeth was a woman and unmarried: many people felt that she was not capable of ruling the country.