Issues of Edward VI's age Flashcards
What previous examples of minors on the throne demonstrate that they caused problems?
Henry III came to throne in 1219 aged nine, there was a civil was after he came of age, but during his minority unrest that resulted in Magna Carta was ended + country was ruled well
What concerns were there that the rule of a minor would create instability?
Edward would not be able to lead troops into war
Factional stuggles as a minor would be unable to control them
In an age of personal monarchy, there were also concerns about the image of the King
What is a Personal monarchy?
where the king had a great deal of influence, but much of his power depended on his presence, personality + ability to convey power
Why were there concerns about the image of the King?
as a nine year old it was difficult to portray him as powerful or militarily adept eg in the past coins had been used to show Henry VIII in this way
concern as in 1553, the pattern for a new coin showed the king on horseback & no longer a child
Why was Edward not being able to lead troops into war, a vital problem?
other states might look to exploit the potential weakness of a minor on the throne
not only a threat from other countries, but also fear that England would return to a period of civil war as seen during 15th Century in the Wars of the Roses
Despite the drawbacks of Edward ruling as a minor, what is it important to remember?
he was not a sickly child when he came to the throne, there was every expectation that he would reach adulthood, marry + have an heir
Who was Somerset?
the uncle of the King
he had built up a reputation as a successful soldier during Henry’s wars in Scotland
Why was the transfer of power to Somerset smooth?
because Henry’s death was kept quiet until Somerset had possession of Edward
also, there were realistic arguments against a Regency Council of 16 where every member had an equal voice
Why were there arguments against a Regency Council of sixteen where each member had an equal voice?
it was very unlikely that decisions would have been agreed upon + it might encourage even more factional unrest
but it did not prevent people questioning the legality of his power
Why did some question the legality of Somerset’s power?
as it went against Henry’s wishes, which added to the potential for instability, as it could encourage others to challenge Somerset’s dominance
What happened instead of Henry’s wishes of England being ruled by a Regency Council until Edward came of age?
the Duke of Somerset had been made Lord Protector by the Council, he ruled the country using the dry stamp
