Key debate 3: How serious a threat to Elizabeth was Tyrone’s rebellion?

Question 1

Key points:

Answer 1

• Was a serious threat

* Was not a serious threat

Question 2

Was a serious threat due to strength of Tyrone:

Answer 2

• Longest lasting of all 16th century rebellions.
• Most costly in terms of finance and number of men required to deal with it.
• Although far away, could provide a springboard for an invasion of England.
• Rebellions in Ireland difficult to suppress because of the terrain and the nature of warfare.
• First Irish rebellion to rouse nearly the whole population in support - wide-spread and large-scale support.
• Tyrone controlled Ulster - supply of resources rich.
• Tyrone’s troops well-trained. Some had served in Elizabeth’s armies.
• Tyrone’s army reinforced by Scottish forces.
• Involvement of Spain made it a threat - could endanger English national security.

Question 3

Was a serious threat due to weakness of Elizabeth:

Answer 3

• Essex most experienced but wasted time ad resources, unwilling to risk confrontation.
• War with Spain meant that Elizabeth was unable to fund force in Ireland to the level needed.
• Due to neglect of Ireland Irish leaders had lost trust in the English deputises and turned to Tyrone.
• English gov divided over strategy. Elizabeth wanted peace - other advisers suggested a more aggressive policy.
• Only defeated after Elizabeth’s death.

Question 4

Was not a serious threat:

Answer 4

• Too far away from London to pose any direct threat.
• Once Mountjoy sent, the rebellion was put down with relative ease. Expedition well planned.
• Mountjoy skilfully conciliated native Irish, won back support.
• Many in Ireland became fed up with the power of Tyrone.