Government Flashcards
Elizabeth’s involvement in government?
She kept regularly updated and involved with their workings and often met with key councillors like Sir Christopher Hatton and Cecil on a one-on-one basis.
Privy Council at the beginning of her reign?
Start of the reign: Cecil became the key minister and was joined by Protestants such as Sir Nicholas Bacon
When did Robert Dudley join the council?
Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester joined the council in 1562.
Did Elizabeth’s initial council serve her well?
In the early years Elizabeth maintained a good balance between Reformists and Conservatives. They worked well together on issues such as the religious settlement and Elizabeth’s marriage. There was some rivalry between Cecil and Dudley but they managed a good working relationship
1570’s Privy Council?
In the 1570s the downfall of Norfolk and death of Winchester led to the council becoming more Reformist. A key group of councillors were appointed including; Sir Ralph Sadler, Sir Walter Mildmay, Sir Francis Walsingham and Ambrose Dudley. The addition of Sir Christopher Hatton gave some conservative balance.
Government 1580’s?
From the 1580s Elizabeth’s key and long-term councillors began to die off. Sadler died in 1587, Leicester 1588, Mildmay 1589, Walsingham, Ambrose Dudley and the Earl of Shrewsbury in 1590. The elderly Lord Burghley (Cecil) appointed his son to aid him
Consequences of the son of Cecil joining the council?
The addition of the younger Cecil caused rivalry with Elizabeth’s new favourite the Earl of Essex which would led to him leading a rebellion in 1601.
Effectiveness of 1570/80s government?
In the 1570s and 1580s the Council worked well together to deal with the Ridolfi plot and threat from Mary Queen of Scots as well as national security. In 1573 they made preparations for training militias and in 1585 created a system of local Lord-Lieutenants to raise and trade men covering nearly every county.
Consequences of deaths of councillors?
The death of many skilled long-term councillors meant Elizabeth often left posts empty as she delayed her decisions or used the middle-aged sons of previous councillors who often lacked their father’s skills.
How many parliaments were called in Elizabeth’s reign?
13- less important feature of government
How many parliaments were called to raise a tax/subsidy?
12
Function of 1st parliament?
First parliament, Jan – May 1559 – called just after the coronation. Focused upon the Elizabethan settlement. Pushed through via the work of protestant councillors vs. a conservative block in the House of Lords.
Focus of parliament between 1563-1566?
67 sessions attempt to push Elizabeth into marriage – despite being called by Elizabeth for money. This went against Elizabeth’s prerogative.
Additional purpose of parliament 1563-1566?
She also blocked a proposal for further religious reform backed by Cecil and the Bishops.
1571 Parliament?
1571 session – called to gain a subsidy to pay off the suppression of the 1569 rebellion. Councillors push for stricter controls on Catholics. William Strickland pushed for further reform of the Book of Common Prayer – Elizabeth unhappy. Council who wanted more subtle pushes remove him.
1572 Parliament?
1572 – Security following Ridolfi – MPs call for Mary’s execution alongside councillors.
1576 Parliament?
1576 – Peter Wentworth imprisoned for questioning the Queen’s prerogative and pushing for free speech- imprisoned in 1593 for pushing Elizabeth to name a successor
1581 Parliament?
1581 – anti-Catholic laws tightened.
1586 Parliament?
After Babbington Plot calls for MQS’ head – Elizabeth actually asked for advice. Presbyterians call for further reform – are imprisoned.
