Mary I and Relations with Foreign Powers Flashcards
Spanish interests
At the end of Edward VI’s reign, England was on peaceful terms with France. Philip II wanted England to declare war on France to support Spain. This demonstrated that Philip II was placing Spain’s interests above England’s.
Declaring war on France
In 1557, England declared war on France and sent troops to join Spanish forces. Spanish and English forces defeated France at the Battle of Saint-Quentin. But Spain did not have the money to secure a victory.
England’s military
The Militia Act of 1558 improved the raising of troops. Lord Lieutenants were in charge of raising troops in each county. They had been used before but became permanent.
JPs and Commissioners of Muster would also help in this task. This replaced the traditional feudal way of raising an army that relied on local nobility. Although Lord Lieutenants were nobles, they were appointed by the Crown and could lose their posts. The Royal Navy increased from three warships in 1555 to 21 by 1557.
French response
In 1558, France seized Calais from England.
This was humiliating for Mary I. Calais ensured England had a position on the continent. The loss of it meant England lost political power in Europe.
