Power of Nobility Flashcards
Why were the nobility a problem?
- Henry was a usurper - nothing stopped a noble from overthrowing him.
- Many owned very large amounts of land, which equals power.
- Many supported Richard III as he rewarded them.
- They could provide the leadership and sufficient force for a rebellion.
Why did Henry need the nobility?
- Henry was in exile for many years - he needed their advice and help to govern.
- They filled key offices.
- They ensured that the royal will was enforced in the localities.
How many peers were there at the beginning and end of Henry’s reign compared with Edward IV?
Edward: 42 -> 46
Henry: 50 -> 35
How many major peers were there at the beginning and end of Henry’s reign compared to Edward IV?
Edward: 7 -> 12
Henry: 16 -> 10
What was patronage?
Giving away positions of power, titles and land as a RESULT of hard work, not in the HOPE of hard work.
What was the Order of the Garter?
A title that gave prestige but not power.
What were the King’s Council and Great Council?
King’s Council: Sign of great trust
Great Council: Hard for nobles to criticise actions retrospectively if they agreed to a policy.
What were Acts of Attainder?
A family would lose the right to possess or inherit land, which caused economic and social ruin. It was REVERSIBLE.
What were bonds and recognisances?
Bonds: A sum was agreed to pay if a promise was not carried out.
Recognisances: Acknowledgement of a debt or obligation.
What were the five types of feudal dues?
- Warship: Took control of the estates of minors; exploited to maximise crown income.
- Marriage: Profit from arranged marriages of heirs.
- Livery: King paid to recover land from wardship.
- Relief: Received money as land was inherited.
- Escheats: Payments made when land was reverted to the crown.
How much wealthier was the crown at the end of Henry VII’s reign than Henry VI?
5 times more land. Land = power
