The Backdrop Flashcards
How did the catholic conspiracy begin?
It began in 1605 when Catholics attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament
They knew it was going to happen, but allowed it to play out right till the very last moment to breed a dislike for Catholics
What is the Magna Carta?
It limits the Monarchs power - they are not above the law
What is the ancient constitution?
A set of unwritten laws that have been built up over time - the King is expected to uphold this
What are parliamentary privileges?
Granting subsidies to the King, freedom of speech, immunity from arrest, right to pass petitions, impeachment
What was James’ relationship with parliament like?
- Parliament often overstepped their parliamentary privileges and discussed matters of national importance, which caused friction
- Parliament often used bribes to get their way
- James had a bad reputation for being extravagant and using the funds to buy gifts for his favourite, GEORGE VILLIERS - with whose Charles was rumoured to be in a homosexual relationship
- Many court scandals and sexual deviance
- James referred to the House of Commons as ‘a body without a head’
Despite the tension, this was a period of relative stability
What was the ‘Spanish Match’ and why was it important?
This was the promise of marriage between the Spanish infanta and James’ oldest son
It wasn’t necessarily going to happen, but kept communication open
What happened in 1604 with Spain?
How did parliament feel about this?
In 1604, James made peace with the Spanish after 19 years of war
Parliament weren’t so happy as it lessened James’ reliance on them for subsidies
In what year did the 30 years war begin?
When did England join?
1618
1625
Describe relations between James and parliament in 1621? What events happened?
- Parliament wanted James to join the 39 years war against Catholics
- James told them that he didn’t need their advice
- Parliament replied with the 1621 protestation, claiming that it was their right to discuss foreign policy
- James dissolved parliament
What did Buckingham and Charles do in 1623?
- They travelled to Madrid to surprise the Spanish infanta and woo her
- When they turned up unannounced, the Spanish court were outraged and refused to let them in
- Charles returned angry and embarrassed
- Charles then began to support the cause for war
What is the divine right of kings?
How did James and Charles follow this?
The belief that Kings were chosen by God, and answerable only to him
JAMES - did believe in it, though used it mainly as a political tool
CHARLES - devoutly believed in it
English people didn’t question this
What is the Basilican Doron?
A guide on how to be a king, written by James
What is a bugaboo?
An object of fear/nightmare
What were Charles’ aims?
- Wanted to tighten the kingdom
- Wanted formality and order in his court, and to end the frivolous extravagance
- To safeguard the Protestant church
