Elizabeth's Problems

Question 1

what were the 6 problems she faced?

Answer 1

succession
Ireland
foreign policy
Religion
Mary Queen of Scots
Taxation

Question 2

how was succession a problem?

Answer 2

she was the last living child of Henry VIII
no children of her own- unclear who would succeed her
1562- almost died of smallpox- uncertainty of England’s future

Question 3

why was Ireland a problem?

Answer 3

Elizabeth- Queen of Ireland also
1559- major revolt in Ireland- first of several during her reign

Question 4

how was religion a problem?

Answer 4

Catholics did not trust Elizabeth
during the Tudor period- England’s religion changed many times- caused instability and violence
Puritanism- Puritans wanted to take control of Elizabeth’s Church which could ruin the religious settlement

Question 5

how was Mary Queen of Scots a problem?

Answer 5

she was Catholic and many Catholics saw her as an alternative Queen- this was a threat to Elizabeth
she was next in line to the throne- Elizabeth’s cousin

Question 6

how was taxation a problem?

Answer 6

the country was short of money- Elizabeth needed to raise taxes but poverty was widespread- raising taxes would be very unpopular

Question 7

how was foreign policy a problem?

Answer 7

Catholic countries (Spain and France) wanted influence over England- threat of invasion and they had the support of the Pope
Elizabeth had to decide whether to get involved in the Netherlands- there was a key area of tension as the Protestant population was in conflict with its Spanish rulers