Essex's Rebellion Flashcards
When was it?
Early 1601.
Who was the Earl of Essex?
Robert Dudley’s step-son.
Who did Essex frequently clash with?
Robert Cecil, Lord Burghley’s Son (William Cecil).
What did Essex say to Elizabeth that insulted her?
‘Her conditions are nearly as crooked as her carcass!’
What was he first banished from court for?
Nearly drawing his sword on Elizabeth after an argument they had in a meeting.
Where did Elizabeth send Essex and to do what in chance to redeem himself?
She sent him to deal with a rebellion in Ireland in 1598 led by Lord tyrone.
What happened at this rebellion and what happened straight after?
Essex went against the Queen’s orders and agreed a truce with Tyrone.
Upon his return he rushed into the Queen’s chambers and saw her before she was gowned or wigged.
What happened as a result of Essex rushing into the Queen’s chambers?
This was the last straw for Elizabeth. Essex was banished from court again, had his sweet wine monopoly removed, put under house arrest and lost all his jobs. Feeling like he had nothing to lose, Essex began planning his rebellion.
How many supporters did Essex gather?
Around 300.
When and why was Essex executed?
On the 25th of February 1601 Essex was executed in private in the Tower of London after being accused of treason.
Why was Essex previously a favourite of the Queen?
In 1596 he had successfully raided the Spanish Port of Cadiz, his step father was also a potential suitor for marriage for Elizabeth.
Who’s influence did Essex try get rid of using this rebellion?
Cecils.
What did this rebellion show about her government? (A short-term consequence)
It showed that even though Elizabeth was old and faded by this time, and although many of her key ministers were dead, it was still strong enough to fight a rebellion.
What were 5 long-term responses of this?
-The patronage system had to be reassessed due to the conflict it had caused.
-The Essex faction all but disappeared, while the Cecil faction remained under Elizabeth’s successor to the throne, James the I.
-2 Cecil descendants even went on to become prime ministers in later centuries.
-Over the next 40 years, Parliament would gain power (eventually overthrowing King Charles in 1649).
-The failure of yet another rebellion showed many dissenters of the monarchy that rebellion could be futile and that disputes should be aired in court.
What did the rebellion show about Elizabeth’s government?
It showed that despite Elizabeth being old, and many of her ministers were dead, it showed her government was still strong enough to fight a rebellion.
