Henry VII relationship with nobles Flashcards
How did Henry VII control the nobility?
Henry VII used methods such as Acts of Attainder, bonds and recognisances, retaining laws, feudal dues, and the Court of Star Chamber to limit noble power and ensure loyalty.
What were Acts of Attainder?
These were laws that allowed Henry VII to strip nobles of land, wealth, and titles if they were suspected of treason. They could sometimes be reversed as a reward for loyalty.
What were bonds and recognisances?
Financial agreements that forced nobles to stay loyal. A bond was a written promise to pay money if they acted against the king, while a recognisance was a formal acknowledgement of a debt owed to the Crown.
Why did Henry VII limit retaining?
Retaining (keeping private armies) gave nobles military power that could challenge the king. Henry passed laws in 1487 and 1504 requiring nobles to get a licence to retain troops, with heavy fines for breaking the rules.
What were feudal dues?
Feudal dues were payments made by nobles to the king as their feudal overlord.
How fuedal dues they strengthen Henry’s control over the nobility?
Henry increased payments for wardship, marriage, relief, and livery to ensure nobles remained financially dependent on him.
How did Henry VII reward loyal nobles?
Instead of giving out excessive land or titles, Henry used the Order of the Garter and positions on the King’s Council to reward loyalty while keeping nobles dependent on him.
What was Henry VII’s approach to patronage?
Henry only rewarded nobles who showed loyalty, rather than creating new noble families. This reduced the number of powerful nobles who could challenge him.
Why did Henry VII avoid creating new nobles?
By limiting the creation of new noble titles, Henry kept power centralized and made existing nobles feel less secure, ensuring their loyalty.
How did Henry VII’s financial policies affect the nobility?
Henry heavily fined nobles for breaking laws and increased their financial dependence on the Crown. This reduced their ability to fund private armies or challenge royal authority.
How successful was Henry VII in controlling the nobility?
Henry’s strict policies reduced noble power and ensured stability. However, they created resentment and relied on financial penalties, which could have caused problems after his death.
