Essex rebellion

Question 1

Background

Answer 1

• Essex was loyal and one of Queen’s favourites.
• Privy councillor in 1595 and awarded monopoly on sweet wine
• Developed rivalry with Robert Cecil, William’s son

Question 2

Causes

Answer 2

• Had an argument with the queen, so he turned his back on her so she slapped him
• He almost drew his sword
• Queen sent him to Ireland to deal with a rebellion, got a truce against queen’s orders
• When he returned, rushed into queen’s room when she had no wig
• All this led to him losing Elizabeth’s favour and his sweet wine monopoly being revoked. Led to him losing wealth and influence, so he started a rebellion.

Question 3

Events in rebellion

Answer 3

• Essex took 4 privy councillors hostage and marched them to his London house with 200 supporters
• Robert marked him a traitor, leading to most supporters leaving and releasing hostages.