James and parliament Flashcards
What was the situation like at the beginning of James’ reign?
His reputation preceded him as author of the ‘trew law of free monarchies’ with its emphasis on divine right, this worried parliament as they were very sensitive to any apparent attack on their privileges.
How did the parliament of 1604 begin?
Badly, with disputes over the Buckinghamshire election, resulting in angry speeches from both sides. The atmosphere worsened when James spoke of his desire for a union between Scotland and England.
What was the biggest issue at the 1604 parliament?
The union of the crowns, it was dear to James’ heart. Most of parliament hated the Scots, in October, they refused to change the name of the country to Great Britain, so James changed his title to king of Great Britain. He continued to seek the union until 1610 and the early failure of it caused him to loose faith in commons, whilst they became increasingly concerned with his abolitionist tendencies.
What did parliament present to James in 1604?
The form of apology and satisfaction, presenting their fears about his absolutist tendencies.
What happened to the second session of the 1604 parliament?
Meant to meet in November 1605 but was delayed by the discovery of the gunpowder plot. When it met in early 1606 it granted James an unprecedented £400,000. By the time the third session began in winter 1606, commons had regained its suspicious attitude.
How did the first parliament end?
- Dominated by discussion on the great contract which failed owing to mistrust on both sides. 2. James lectured on his prerogative for two hours. 3. The form of apology and satisfaction did not help as it grossly exaggerated the situation “(their privileges) had never been more universally and dangerously impugned.”
Why did the first parliament end so badly?
- James had been careful not to attack the privileges of the commons directly, but had failed to explain crown policies. 2. The lack of understanding stemmed from a lack of adequate representation for privy councilors in commons- lacking proper information, they were more then willing to suspect the crown of sinister intentions and were thus uncooperative.
What happened during the 1614 parliament?
The addled parliament, voted no subsidies and passed no legislation. In the absence of a clear agenda, commons began discussing impositions and when one MP suggested all Scottish members of the bedchamber should be sent home, James dissolved it.
Give three facts about Robert Carr
- Came to James’ attention in 1607, filled the vacuum left by Salisbury and was showered with gifts and titles. 2. After a scandalous divorce case in 1613 he married the pro Spanish Francis Howard. 3. By 1615 an anti Spanish faction led by the Archbishop of Canterbury tried to entice James’ favor away from Carr to George Villiers.
What was the Overbury affair?
Thomas Overbury had opposed the marriage between Carr and Essex, so was put in the Tower of London and the countess had him poisoned in 1613. When this got out in 1615, Carr and Essex were found guilty of murder, James reduced their sentences from execution to imprisonment and later gave them a full pardon.
Give three facts about George Villiers
- Came to James’ attention in 1614, he was lavished with attention, causing a lot of jealousy. 2. After the fall of the Howards in 1618 he was imbued with gifts and took on the direction of affairs. 3. James had a better relationship with him then with Charles and they were thought to be lovers.
How much did the 1621 parliament grant?
Two subsidies of £140,000. They then turned to discussion on monopolies, which caused inflation and were harmful, but the bill restricting them failed to pass in the lords.
What happened at the 1621 parliament?
The most pressing issue was the palatinate, commons urged the king to lead the Protestant cause in Europe and to marry charles to “on of our own religion.” This angered james and he told them not to meddle in “anything concerning our government.” Parliament objected on the grounds of parliamentary privilege, which james then claimed they only had because he granted it. Commons then decided to enter a formal account of their privileges into their journal- the protestation.
How did the 1621 parliament end?
When james heard about the protestation, he ripped it out as it claimed commons could discuss foreign policy. Parliament was dissolved.
Give three facts about the 1624 parliament
- Despite previous issues, they were once again summoned to discuss foreign policy. 2. Charles and Buckingham had arrived home from Madrid and wanted war, only James stood in their way. 3. Charles liked the anti Spanish views in parliament and was ready to accept a number of disturbing developments.
