wolseys domestic policy Flashcards
Who was Thomas Wolsey?
A prominent figure in the early reign of Henry VIII, serving as Chief Minister from 1514 to 1529.
Wolsey was the son of an Ipswich butcher and rose to power due to his hard work, talent, and support for Henry’s foreign policy.
What role did Wolsey play in Henry VIII’s foreign policy?
He supported Henry’s aggressive foreign policy and recognized opportunities for promotion.
Wolsey’s diplomatic experience included serving as Henry VII’s chaplain.
What was Wolsey’s approach to legal reforms?
He aimed to bring greater justice to the legal system by prioritizing civil law over common law and ensuring cheap and impartial justice for the poor.
Wolsey used the Star Chamber and established the Court of Chancery.
What was the significance of the Star Chamber during Wolsey’s tenure?
It was used to hear cases against the powerful, ensuring accountability.
Wolsey personally heard many cases, sometimes using the system for his own benefit.
What financial reform did Wolsey introduce?
The subsidy, which replaced the old fifteenth and tenth tax system, increasing tax revenue based on realistic assessments of wealth.
Despite this, he struggled to meet the financial demands of foreign policy.
What was the outcome of Wolsey’s attempt to raise funds through the Amicable Grant?
It led to massive unrest in East Anglia, forcing Henry to cancel the grant and Wolsey to apologize.
Wolsey had hoped to raise £800,000 but only managed £300,000.
What actions did Wolsey take regarding social reform?
He attacked enclosure practices and initiated legal actions against landowners, but had limited impact.
Wolsey established an enquiry in 1517 and brought many landowners to court.
How often did Wolsey summon Parliament?
He called Parliament only twice, in 1515 and 1523, mainly for war funding.
His infrequent summons may indicate a poor relationship with Parliament.
What were the Eltham Ordinances?
Reforms introduced by Wolsey in 1526 aimed at improving the Privy Chamber’s finances and efficiency.
They may have also been intended to increase Wolsey’s influence over access to the King.
True or False: Wolsey was primarily focused on domestic affairs.
False.
While he engaged in domestic reforms, his initial rise was due to his support for foreign policy.
Fill in the blank: Wolsey was Chief Minister from _______ until his fall in 1529.
1514
