faction under mary Flashcards
What was one major concern about a female ruler like Mary?
Belief that they would be unable to control factions
This concern was particularly relevant regarding Mary’s proposed marriage and the divided support among her councillors.
What were the fears associated with a Spanish marriage during Mary’s reign?
Factional strife between English courtiers and Spanish courtiers
English courtiers worried about their positions and the potential dominance of Spanish courtiers in court.
How did Mary’s Privy Council composition affect its perceived effectiveness?
Included both her supporters and experienced administrators
Some argue it was ineffective due to its size and attendance issues.
What was established in 1554 to improve the Privy Council’s function?
Committees that excluded casual councillors
This was part of efforts to streamline decision-making.
What significant change occurred in the Privy Council in 1555?
Establishment of an ‘inner council’
This allowed for more focused governance and decision-making.
Who dominated the Privy Council after Philip’s departure and Gardiner’s death?
Paget
His dominance led to a more conciliar form of government.
What were the initial points of conflict between Gardiner and Paget?
Mary’s marriage and revival of the heresy laws
Their clashes reflected deeper factional struggles within the council.
What did Parliament initially reject in April 1554?
Reintroduction of the heresy laws
They agreed to them only after guarantees regarding monastic lands.
What does the struggle to reintroduce heresy laws indicate about Mary’s policies?
Unpopularity of Mary’s religious policies
This struggle was part of the factional conflict between Gardiner and Paget.
What role did Cardinal Pole play in Mary’s court politics?
Changed the nature of court politics by being a trusted advisor
Mary often referred matters to him or the Spanish ambassador due to distrust of her councillors.
How did Elizabeth, Mary’s half-sister, effectively manage court factions?
By playing one group off against another
This strategy allowed her to control government effectively.
True or False: The struggles within Mary’s Privy Council created inefficiency in governance.
False
There is no evidence that factional struggles prevented effective governance.
