Role of the Secretary Flashcards
The role of the secretary
Became political importance in the 1530s - the secretary was essentially a member of the Household, whose importance lay in access to the king combined with intimate knowledge of royal affairs.
Increase in political importance due to Cromwell
Personal access to the monarch with control of the Privy seal - very influential in virtually all areas of public life.
Thomas Cromwell
A lawyer which rose to favour during Henry’s ‘Great Matter’, becoming Sec in 1534. He was a protestant but he suggested divorce was a legal matter, not theological.
Used his position to become the second-most powerful man after Henry, despite not being Lord Chancellor like Wolsey.
Controlled Council meetings and his access to the King’s private correspondence meant he had detailed knowledge of Henry’s business.
Thomas Wriothesley and Ralph Salder
Following Cromwell’s fall in 1540 - split position between two men for the first time and neither were as powerful as Cromwell.
Post declined in political importance - partly in response to the increased workload and also ensuring nobody could exploit the position to their own advantage.
William Cecil and Francis Walsingham
Position grew in political importance upon the appointment of Cecil in 1558-72 - the first to display similar power to Cromwell.
Later Secretaries were equally influential. For example, Walsingham held office from 1573-90.
But, having two secretaries in power usually meant one were more dominant.
How did the position under Elizabeth become more permanent?
Appointed men who used it to enhance their own power and to conduct the day-to-day running of the government on the Queen’s behalf.
Duties varied = being tactful as they had to deal with the Queen, ensure Council meetings were well-run, and sift through enormous amounts of information sent to them.
Could be dangerous - form of William Davidson.
How did the position of Sec be dangerous under Elizabeth?
William Davidson
Responsible for keeping the death warrant issued for the execution of Mary Scots - critical as she was Liz’s rival to the throne.
Signed, despite her reluctance, and had asked Davidson to keep it safe but Council sent it off. Elizabeth blamed Davidson - tried, imprisoned and forced to pay a fine of 10,000 marks (despite being released, he was never employed by her again).
Example showed just how exposed the position could be.
He refused to fill his post for six years, despite the ambitious men vying for the position.
Robert Cecil
Used his position to build up a network of supporters, having access to the Queen’s correspondence = included info about the offices and positions and its requests.
Ensured patronage was distributed to his own clients, whilst ensuring the followers of his rivals (Earl of Essex) were not rewarded.
