Elizabethan Government Rivalries Flashcards
What was the purpose of the Elizabethan Court?
To seek advice on an individual basis and manage patronage
Patronage was a vital part of court life during Elizabeth’s reign.
What are the two main areas of the Elizabethan Court?
- Presence Chamber
- Privy Chamber
The Presence Chamber was accessible to anyone with the right status; the Privy Chamber was more private but less significant than under previous Tudors.
Who was the Lord Chamberlain during Elizabeth’s reign?
Always a noble and frequently a close family member, such as Lord Hunsdon in 1585
The role of Lord Chamberlain was significant in maintaining the court’s structure.
What was the significance of ceremonial aspects in the Elizabethan Court?
Ceremonial aspects became much more important during this period
This reflects the changing nature of royal representation and authority.
What does Royal Prerogative refer to?
The traditional established rights bestowed upon a monarch
This concept was crucial for Elizabeth as she navigated her rule.
Who were some of the key councillors during Elizabeth’s reign?
- William Cecil
- Sir Nicholas Bacon
- Francis Russell, Earl of Bedford
- Sir Francis Knollys
- Thomas Howard, 4th Duke of Norfolk
- Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester
These individuals played pivotal roles in the governance of England.
What was Robert Dudley’s role and influence in Elizabethan politics?
Puritanical Protestant, made Earl of Leicester in 1564, close friend and possible lover of Elizabeth
He was known for his strong opposition to Spain and led an army in 1585.
What was the impact of the execution of Thomas Howard and the death of Winchester on the council?
Led to a decline of conservatism in the council
This reshaping of the council in the 1570s allowed for new thinkers to emerge.
Who were some of the new thinkers in the council during the 1570s?
- Sir Francis Walsingham
- Sir Walter Mildmay
- Sir Ralph Sadler
- Sir Thomas Smith
- Sir Henry Sidney
- Earl of Warwick
These individuals contributed to a shift in political thought within the council.
What was the significance of Mary Queen of Scots in Elizabethan factionalism?
She was the true Catholic heir to the English throne
Her presence created significant political tension during Elizabeth’s reign.
What challenge did Elizabeth face regarding marriage?
Without a marriage, she could not produce an heir to England
This issue was a major concern for her succession plans.
What were the weaknesses of the Elizabethan Government?
- Death in quick succession of key figures
- Lack of replacements
- Anger from the nobility over promotions
These weaknesses contributed to instability in governance.
What was the issue surrounding the promotion of Robert Cecil?
It angered the Earl of Essex, leading to conflict between Essex and Cecil
This rivalry highlighted the factional tensions within the court.
True or False: By 1597, only 11 councillors were left in the Elizabethan Government.
True
This significant reduction in numbers created challenges in governance.
Fill in the blank: The lack of _______ meant a lack of the most important families being involved in politics.
nobility
This absence weakened the political structure of Elizabeth’s government.
