the government in 1558

Question 1

Give five features of the government upon Elizabeth’s succession in 1558:

Answer 1

Elizabethan government had many different features, including the parliament, Justices of the Peace, Privy Council, courts and Lord Lieutenants.

Question 2

Describe the courts in 1558:

Answer 2

In 1558, the court was made up of noblemen who acted as the monarch’s advisers and friends. They advised the monarch and helped display her wealth and power. Members of the court could also be members of the Privy Council.

Question 3

Describe the Justices of the Peace:

Answer 3

The Justices of the Peace were local, male landowners. They were appointed to their job by the government. They were responsible for keeping law and order in their local area, as well as hearing court cases.

Question 4

Describe the Lord Lieutenants:

Answer 4

The Lord Lieutenants were noblemen appointed by government. They governed English counties and raised local militia when necessary.

Question 5

Describe the parliament:

Answer 5

The parliament advised Elizabeth’s government and was made up of the House of Commons and the House of Lords. The House of Lords contained noblemen and bishops who weren’t voted into their roles, instead followed their fathers’ roles. Those in the House of Commons were elected into their positions, however very few people could vote in the elections. Parliament’s role was to pass laws and approve taxes.

Question 6

Describe the Privy Council:

Answer 6

The Privy Council was made up of members of the nobility who helped in governing the country. They monitored parliament and the Justices of the Peace. Also, the Privy Council oversaw law and order and security of the country.

Question 7

Define extraordinary taxation:

Answer 7

Extraordinary taxation is any extra taxes required to fund an unexpected country expense, for example a war. Extraordinary taxation had to be approved by parliament before implemented.

Question 8

Define militia:

Answer 8

Militia is a force of ordinary, untrained people raised in an emergency. The Lord Lieutenants were responsible for raising militia in their local area when necessary.

Question 9

What two things didn’t Elizabeth have the power to do?

Answer 9

Without approval from parliament, Elizabeth couldn’t pass laws or increase taxes.