Mary I and her Ministers Flashcards
Why did Northumberland fail in keeping his power?
Mary had much support in Norfolk among the Catholics there whilst Northumberland was unpopular for his violent treatment of Kett’s rebellion.
The ships sent to intercept Mary were disloyal and switched sides
His council were largely against him as he was acting illegally and for a selfish reason
Did Mary have popular support in her accession to power?
Yes she did though it’s difficult to say if this is because people supported Catholicism or supported the legitimate/ legal succession
What problems did Mary have when she took power?
- the kingdom had religious divisions
- substantial Protestant minority
- not brought up to rule so inexperienced
- her loyal and trusted supporters like Robert Rochester had no experience in government
- had to rely on those that served Edward VI therefore those who made religious reforms that she disagreed with
On which two men did Mary trust the advice of most?
Her husband Philip of Spain, and Simon Renard the ambassador of Charles V
What happened to ex-monastic lands?
They were not restored to the Church after opposition to it in Parliament, Mary also didn’t necessarily press for it
Who was the only English candidate for marriage to Mary and why did this not work?
Edward Courtenay, the Earl of Devon. However, marriage to an English person would bring factional rivalry and Courtenay lacked courtly skills
What did the marriage treaty stipulate and when was it?
- Philip would be given the title of King but wouldn’t exercise any of the powers that came with it
- No foreigners could hold English offices
- If Mary died before Philip then Philip would not have any claim to the English throne
It was in January 1554
What was the public opinion and Parliament’s opinion to the marriage?
Both were very unhappy.
Public: Wyatt’s rebellion was primarily against the marriage
Parliament: rejected a bill in 1554 to include Philip in a law on treason and prevented Philip’s coronation in 1555
Why did Mary effectively find herself at war with the Papacy?
The Pope was very anti-spanish and sought to renew a war between France and Spain
