Elizabeth Unit 1 Flashcards
What was a Noble’s position in society
dukes and earls. Most powerful figures in England below Elizabeth. Own huge amounts of land and can raise their own armies. Expect to given power at court.
What was a Gentry’s position is society
– less wealthy landowners with large influence and power. Often have roles in local government like JP.
What was a merchant’s position is society
wealthy traders in towns. Represented in parliament
What was a peasant’s position in society
vast majority. Powerless.
What was the formation of the Privy council
19 members of Elizabeth’s key advisors. Leading figures include William Cecil, Robert Dudley and Francis Walsingham
What was parliament used for
needed to approve taxation. Elizabeth reluctant to call too often.
What was the Royal prerogative used for
Foreign policy, religion, succession, marriage
Why was legitimacy a problem for Elizabeth
-Catholics (around ½ the population) did not view Henry VIII’s marriage to Anne Boleyn as valid as the Pope had not sanctioned Henry’s divorce. This therefore made Elizabeth illegitimate and thus she should not be queen.
-Henry VIII himself had declared Elizabeth illegitimate in 1536 with the 2nd Act of Succession, although this had been reversed in 1543 (3rd Act).
Why was marriage a problem for Elizabeth
-It was expected of a Tudor woman and a monarch to marry. Otherwise the Tudor line would end.
-However in a Tudor marriage the wife was expected to do what was instructed by the husband. This would be unacceptable in Elizabeth’s case.
-If Elizabeth married a foreign prince this could lead to foreign interference and England being dragged into European affairs
-If she married an Englishman (like Dudley) this would create resentment from other privy councilors.
Why was gender a problem for Elizabeth
Elizabeth’s England was highly patriarchal. It was believed that women could not control men in their government or lead an army.
-The only previous queen was her half-sister Bloody Mary who had left the impression women were instable rulers.
Why was finances a problem for Elizabeth
Elizabeth had been left a debt of £227,000 by Mary I. This was a huge amount of money and would limit Elizabeth’s capabilities in her rule.
-Forced to sell off lots of her crown lands to raise quick income. Led to lower future incomes through rents
What was Spain’s position in Europe
Spain is the most powerful country in the world. Ruled by Philip II (had been married to Mary I and had proposed to Elizabeth!)
What was France’s position in Europe
France is 2nd most powerful country. Also strong catholic.
What was Scotland’s position in Europe
Scotland is independent nation ruled by Mary, Queen of Scots (in France married to prince Francis)
Why was Spain a problem for Elizabeth
-Currently control the majority of the ‘New World’ with all its gold and riches. European empire includes the mainly protestant Netherlands
-From 1568 the protestant Netherlands are engaged in the Dutch Revolt – key to Elizabethan foreign policy. Keeps Spain busy.
Reluctant to act against Elizabeth in fear of creating a French-Scottish-English empire under Mary QoS
