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Government
Who was Thomas Cromwell and how
far did he strengthen the government
financially and administratively?
Who was Thomas Cromwell?
Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1533- Means
that Cromwell was responsible for all economic
and financial matters
Principal secretary from 1534- Anyone who
wanted something to be done by the King would
have to consult Cromwell first for his support
Lord Privy Seal from 1536-widened his own
power base and raised his status with Henry
Finance 1536-40
Restricted the Privy Purse to the King’s personal
expenditure (An article identifies spending on jewels,
clothes and his fool)
Acts for First Fruits and Tenths: was the transfer of clerical
taxes to the pope to the King .
rents from crown lands( gave continuous revenue rather
than selling them of for large amounts), larger after
dissolution of the monarchy (1536-40)
Gained control of noble estates with minority heir. The
court of wards.
Principality of Wales, Duchies of Cornwall and Lancaster to
the King if no male heir.
Administration 1536-40
Parliament
localities
Privy council
1536- Act of
Parliament – only
crown could appoint
judges, only the King
could pardon serious
crimes
The sheriff declining in
importance.
JP’s (justices of the
peace) rising in
importance and duties.
Getting smaller
Cromwell had his
not really used by own men in the
Henry under
chamber
Cromwell
1539 appointed
himself as Chief
Noble of the Privy
Chamber.
1540- Act of
parliament- ended
important abuses of
the privilege of
sanctuary, no
sanctuary for those
found guilty of serious
crimes e.g. murder,
rape, arson or burglary
Cromwell extended Royal
Power to localities.
After Cromwell
Increase in
privy council able importance of privy
to develop
chamber
Prevented
development of
the inner circle of
advisors gathered
by King in 1531
into formal privy
council.
Council of the North and
Welsh marches
strengthened
Privy chamber
After Cromwell privy
chamber able to
develop
Changing relations with the Nobility
• Privy Council was split between two factions, Aragonese faction
(conservative) and the Boleyn faction (radical). Cromwell always
maintained independence from them.
• 1536- Jan, Death of Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn suffers a
miscarriage of a son,
• 1536- Feb, Jane Seymour given rooms near the King, signalled
Anne's downfall. Cromwell found the evidence for the downfall of
Anne Boleyn, accusations of treason, adultery, made sure she was
found guilty and executed. Led to end of both Aragonese faction
and Boleyn faction.
• Cromwell took control of the factions and dissolved some of them.
Strengthened the Kings rule, though nobility still had some
influence, e.g. Catherine Howard marriage 1542.
Role and Influence of Parliament under
Henry VIII - Acronym
ATTOMIC LAD- Key
Areas of Jurisdiction
Tactics
Tax
Opposition Groups
Membership
Institutional Changes
Clashes with the crown
Laws for the crown
Amount of meetings
Debate
What were the main changes in
Parliament?
1. Membership increased due to the 31 seats for Welsh
MPs after the Act of union with Wales (M)
2. Power shifted from the religious House of Lords to the
House of Commons as they had the confidence of the
crown
3. Jurisdiction over religion and property (AR)
4. There were limitations on ‘Rex Solus’ (the King Alone)
5. Parliament was called every year.
6. Move more towards a constitutional monarchy, with
ultimate power moving away from the king
How far did the role and influence of
Parliament increase?
Increased
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Gained jurisdiction over religionestablished the Church of England
after the break with Rome (AR)
Rule was not by King alone, but by
‘King-in-Parliament’
Increased frequency of meetingsParliament was called every year
(A)
Previous to henry VIII Parliament
clarified law and did not make
new laws (L)
Aragonese faction used
Parliament to oppose Henry (see
factions slides)
Decreased/ No change
1. The King still determined
when Parliament was
called (A)
2. The range and volume
carried out declined after
1540
3. Henry kept the power of
Proclamation (L)
What’s the difference between the Privy Council and
Chamber? Who had more Power?
Privy Council
1. Inner cabinet consisting of
the Kings leading Ministers
2. About 20 members who
handled day to day affairs
3. From the nobility and the
Church, plus lawyers and
royal house hold officers
4. Central administrative
body
Privy chamber
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
The Kings private Chamber at
court where he was waited on
by the Gentlemen of the Privy
Chamber.
Closest access to the King
David Starkey argues that the
role of the Privy Chamber grew
Selected by the King- closer to
the King
The Privy chamber had
established itself as the supreme
executive body by the 1540s
Somerset’s Government
(1547- 49)
Grouping and Questions
•
•
•
•
•
•
Successes and Failures
Finance
Privy Chamber and Council
Parliament
Local control
What Issues did Somerset face in 1547 and how
difficult were they to overcome?
• How did Somerset’s social policies lead to
rebellion in East Anglia?
Successes and Failures
• Seen as the ‘Good Duke’ - Refused to allow any
burnings – Criticised the wealthy – established
the court of requests to hear cases of the poor –
wanted to fix rent and abolish enclosure.
• Poor finance continued debasement – Continued
the war – Caused Pro-Somerset rebellion –
Alienated the Privy Council and Edward (which
caused his downfall) – Displeased Nobility and
wealthy men.
Finance
1. War with Scotland continued (cost £580,393 from
1547-49), worsened the already poor financial state.
Boulogne continued to be fortified. Ending war would
be unpopular.
2. Debasement of the coinage created large amounts
inflation. Somerset denied this showing a lack of
economic knowledge and understanding. This made
the poor poorer.
3. Taxations introduced e.g. sheep tax.
4. Continues the sale of chantry lands which generated
revenue for the government which they were in need
of due to the ongoing war.
Privy Chamber and Council
1. Came to power with the support of the Pricy Council. As
the King’s uncle he was trusted and was blood related to
the throne.
2. Little use was made of the Privy Council as he lead which
lead to Somerset’s demise.
3. As a leader, he was condescending, demanding, rude,
‘tunnel visioned’, authoritian. Members were constantly
supressed by Somerset through proclamations.
4. Household servants (Sir Thomas Smith, Sir Michael
Stanhope, William Cecil, Sir John Thynne and William
Grey) used as government officials.
5. Some decisions that he made were practical.
Parliament
1. Somerset gained power not through
parliament but by letters of Patent granted
by Edward giving him Quasi royal power.
2. Used to pass religious laws.
3. Somerset used more proclamations then any
other ruler (70 in less then 3 years)
4. Privy Chamber became powerful.
Local Control
1. Anti-Enclosure – Set up commissions to
investigate enclosure (1548) under John Hale.
2. Vagrancy Act (1547) – ‘Deserving poor’ to be
given housing and collections by local
councils. Able people who were unemployed
for 3 days were branded with a ‘V’ and sold
to slavery for 2 years. A second offence
would lead to them being sold to slavery for
life.
Government – Northumberland
(1549-53)
What kind of ruler was he and what
were his priorities?
How did he strengthen finance and
administration?
Finance
• 1)Expenditure was reduced, by backing out of the expensive French War
(Treaty of Boulogne) also with the emergency fund: ‘Privy Coffer’
• 2) William Cecil (previously a prisoner of Somerset’s) was put in control of
finance.
• 3) Thomas Gresham was sent to the Netherlands to manipulate stocks and
negotiate loans, decreasing England’s debt
• 4) End of Debasement. Stopped inflation from rising. Provided the
government with profit. Used to pay off loans and expenses. (May 1551)
• 5) Withdrawing English troops from Scotland reduced expenditure (focus
more on finance)
• 6) continued dissolution of chantries and selling crown land ( negative,
needed it to remain in power)
Finance management gradually evolved as they continued to sell crown lands
Local Control
• 1) Repeal of the Vagrancy Act – more of a humane decision, gained
sympathy or support
• 2) After the 1549 Rebellions he made the New Treason Act which gave JPs
the power to restore law and order
• 3) Chose to take care of the disabled and poor with rationing grains after
poor harvest (Poor Law)
• 4) Like Somerset he continued to look into the enclosures, but he wouldn’t
make promises that could end in rebellions
• 5) Vigorously enforced the existing anti-enclosure legislation. People
happy. 
• 6) unpopular sheep tax repealed. Helped to dampen discontent among
land owners and others
Again Northumberland learnt from Somerset’s mistakes, and would be more
humane but with action to prevent chances of uprisings.
Parliament
• 1) Used fewer proclamations than Somerset
• 2) Parliament was used to approve legislation
(Act to punish public assemblies which could lead
to riot or rebellion, 1549-50)
• 3) Met annually (Except 1551) which was still
more than usual (used to meet one every 3 years)
• More focus on parliament compared to Somerset
More used than with previous rulers but still very
limited change.
Privy Council
• 1) Used it more than previous rulers, realised the
importance of a council. Increased members from 20 to 33
• 2) Restored and Re-focussed to a prime position with 33
loyal members. Established inner committees within the
council, aiding efficient business
• 3) Also went for men with military experience, ensuring
immediate armed support
• 4) Established inner committees within the council, aiding
efficient business
More ‘democratic’. Everyone’s view was taken into account
before final decision, contrasting with Somerset’s almost
autocratic rule
Failures
Successes
Final Debasement
Announcing the revaluing of
the coin furthered inflation
Decreased expenditure
Ended debasement
Restored crown finances (out
of debt) (Thomas Gresham
manipulating exchange rate in
sterling's favour)
New Treason Act + Enclosure
Investigation, new Vagrancy act
(less harsh)
Prevented rebellions
More use of Parliament
(members increased 20-33),
legislation approval
Strong and Prime Privy Council
Treaty of Boulogne 1550 ending
war
Historiography
• Traditional view was that he was “greedy”
(Elton)
• “Evil Duke” Elton
• Revised view that he was politically astute and
ambitious
• Changed his views to work with the king and
to appeal to him.
Style of Leadership
(in comparison to Somerset)
• More democratic – willing to use councils and
parliament, cared about opinions.
• (Seemingly) More humane – repealed Vagrancy Act
and helped the disabled. Poor people were better off
under Northumberland than Somerset.
• Less Headstrong – waited for judgements (1552 Prayer
Book), learnt from previous mistakes (1549 Rebellions)
• Adaptive – changed his views to fit the needs of those
above him, e.g religion (previously a catholic until he
had to appeal to Edward with Protestantism)
• Military expertise, handling Kett’s Rebellion
Essay Plan
How far did Government change 1536-53?
Black = H8
Red = Somerset and Northumberland
The state of play in 1536
• King-in-Parliament
• Patronage, leading to faction
• Supreme Head of the Church
Parliament - Change
• Jurisdiction over religion and property.
• Increased frequency of meeting
• Ultimate power moving away from the Monarch and towards
the law.
• Limitations on ‘Rex Solus’ (the King alone).
• The Aragonese faction used Parliament to oppose Henry.
• Under Henry, the H of C started to handle many more Bills
than the H of L.
• Previous to H8, Parlt. was supposed to clarify law and not
really make new laws. This changed.
• Parliament was called every year apart from in 1551 in
Edward’s reign.
Parliament – Limited change
• Parliament merely enhanced the power of the crown
(E.g.s of laws for the crown)
• Monarch still called and dissolved Parliament at will.
• Somerset gained power not from parliament, but by
‘Letters of Patent’ granted by Edward and giving him
quasi-royal power’.
• Northumberland re-focussed on Parliament.
Administration - Change
• More bureaucratic.
• Emphasis on Inner Royal Council (19) and
departments of State, capable of operating
without the King. The Councillors all had
designated tasks.
• Elton’s Revolution in government.
Administration – limited change
• Changes were occurring before 1529.
• Household and Privy Chamber were still
influential. The latter operated with
bureaucratic departments and was not
replaced.
• Cromwell’s admin changes were abandoned
or altered within a decade.
Religion - Change
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
DOM
10 Articles 1536
Injunctions attacking ‘superstition’ in 1536/8
Bishops’ book (1537). 3 sacraments instead of 7
Translation of Bible – 1538.
1540 – Act ending important abuses of Sanctuary.
S’s and N’s religious reforms
Religion – Limited Change
• Major changes occurred before 1536 (Act of
Supremacy in 1534)
• Reversal of some changes. E.g. Act of Six
Articles in 1539 (restored 7 sacraments,
transubstantiation and clerical celibacy)
Finance - Change
• DOM brought in £750,000 and £50,000 p.a.
• Debasement due to wars
• Financial courts were set up (E.g. Court of Augmentations to manage
property from DOM and Court of General Surveyors – both in 1536. Court
of Wards in 1540.
• Modern collection and accounting procedures.
• Statute of Uses – 1536 – passed to ensure that crown got monies owed to
it by those with property. Replaced by less harsh Statute of Wills in 1540.
• Further debasement under S. Sheep tax.
• N put William Cecil i/c financial planning. Sir Thomas Gresham was sent to
the Netherlands to manipulate the stock market.
• End of debasement (N)
• N’s reduction in expenditure.
• N set up an emergency fund called the ‘Privy Coffer’.
Finance – Limited change
• Some financial courts were already set up
before 1536 (e.g. Court of First Fruits and
Tenths to tax the clergy from 1534).
• It can be argued that Cromwell’s financial
reforms went back to an era in the High
Middle Ages.
• Most historians argue that management of
finance evolved gradually, starting with the
Yorkist, Edward IV.
Local Control - Change
• Act abolishing Franchises and Liberties so that there were no ‘local
arrangements’ for perks in areas more difficult to control (e.g. North and
Welsh borders)
• Act of Union with Wales (1536). English law and JPs extended into Wales.
Now 31 Welsh MPs in Westminster.
• Councils of North and Welsh Marches were strengthened. Run by
members of the Royal Council with authority directly from the King.
• Irish Parliament passed through Reformation measures suppressing Irish
abbeys and acknowledging the King as Supreme Head of the Irish Church.
• 1536 Act – only the Crown could appoint judges and JPs. Only the King
could pardon serious crimes.
• 1539 – Establishment of the (albeit shortlived) Council of the West.
Overall Power - Change
•
•
•
•
•
Consider factions’ hold over rulers/monarchs (-)
DOM led to a vested interest in ‘New Order’ for gentry and nobility (+)
With newly acquired land, nobles and gentry could appoint clergy (-)
See Parliament – change.
Overall, entire Kingdom of England and Wales was brought under the
direct control of the crown, subject to supreme laws made by King-inParliament, unchallenged by any independent religious, legal or judicial
institutions
• Somerset’s subversion of H8’s will. Explain Somerset’s increase in power.
• Monarch became far less important according to Elton (‘Edward played no
part in his reign’)
• Somerset ruled without the Privy Council and landed elite. He used
proclamations extensively (70 of them). He also had sole control of the
Dry Stamp. John Guy has termed his rule as ‘autocratic’.
Overall Power – limited change
• See parliament – limited change.
• Changes were still works in progress by the time H8
died in 1547.
• Edward’s influence cannot be discounted (cf
Somerset’s fall from power, Edward’s attendance at
Council meetings by 1551, increasing Protestantism)
• Northumberland restored the Council to its prime
position in decision making and expanded its
numbers to 33.
Faction
1539-1553
Did faction undermine the authority of
Henry VIII?
Did:
Wives of Henry VIII could be influenced. Conservatives had influence over
Catherine Howard (P)and reformers had influence through the A of C (R) and
Catherine Parr (education Edward VI) (P). More influence through Bishops Book
(R)(1537) and conservatives attempts to oust Catherine Parr (P).
Execution of Cromwell (P) (victim of conservatives, Henry reported to be gloomy
after this by French ambassador) and Earl Of Surrey. Had to oust Gardiner. (P)
1545- Xmas eve speech to Parliament- announced difficulty of dealing with
faction. (P)
Triumph of radicals , Denny obtaining the use of the Dry Stamp which led to the
will of Henry VIII being changed. (P)
Did faction undermine the authority of Henry
VIII?
Did not:
Henry played factions off against each other. Their influence decreased. E.g. Gardiner v Cranmer
incident (1543). (P)Execution of Cromwell (only months after being made Early of Essex and no
new chief minister was appointed. (P) Gardiner removed from Privy Council, (P) Earl of Surrey
executed in 1546.
King’s book (1543) (R) show that he was in control of religious factions (Henry was conservative
in religion). He wanted the Act of Six Articles (P) (foreign threat). This shows that Henry was not
influenced by Cromwell and the radicals.Backed Catherine Parr after attempt to link her with
heresy. (P)Henry wanted Edward to grow up amidst reformers, therefore allowing the ‘triumph of
the radicals’. (R)Xmas speech to Parliament showed that Henry was aware of factional strife and
therefore could deal with it. (P)
Conclusion:
Faction did undermine the authority of Henry VIII. Use of dry stamp gave Denny significant
influence in changes of Henry’s will. However it depends on time – different factions have
different level of influences over time. Conservatives gradually lost influence whereas the
reformers gained influence as Henry got weaker. The answer also depends on aspect – Henry was
more undermined politically than religiously.
Example of an essay plan on factions
Introduction:
- (Fact/Quote) = e.g; Gunn ‘Worthwhile to try and persuade him’
Initial judgement.
Outline factors; (Marriage, executions, decision making and books &
articles)
What does it depend on?
Main points: (3/4 PEE Paragraphs)
1) Books and articles
Ex; Act of 6 articles & Revised the Kings book.
2) Decision making
Ex; Denny obtained the Dry stamp,
Gardiner excluded from Privy Council,
Christmas Eve speech.
3) Marriages
Marriage to Catherine Howard (Goof for Conservatives)
Marriage to Catherine Parr (Good for Radicals)
4) Executions
Fall of Cromwell
Executions of Catherine Howard (Good for Radicals)
Earl of Surrey executed for treason
Conclusion:
Overall judgment
Main reason; ex: Fall of Cromwell
Depends on.
Did faction
undermine
Edward Seymour
(Somerset)?
Somerset’s rise
Did Undermine
Didn’t Undermine
1. Edward’s own brother, Sir Thomas Seymour
rivalled his new power and demanded he should
have the powerful role of governorship of the King’s
person
1. Edward Seymour, part of the reformist faction
who had control of the dry stamp, was able to keep
King Henry’s death a secret while him and William
Paget gain support for Seymour as leader of the
council. He was appointed leader, Lord Protector and
invested as Duke of Somerset.
2. Thomas had the support of John Dudley, Earl of
Warwick (later to become Somerset’s greatest rival
on the council – Northumberland)
2. Was able to placate Thomas with a place on the
council and appointment as Lord Admiral
3. Thomas Seymour continued scheming to gain
favour of his nephew
3.Thomas overreached himself by plotting to marry
Princess Elizabeth (1548) – lead to his arrest and
execution (March 1549)
The potential threat of Thomas Seymour was quite great as he was close to the King
and had strong support in his claim to power, suggesting he could thoroughly
undermine the power of Somerset. However, this potential was not reached,
showing that overall, Somerset’s power was not wholly undermined by his brother.
Also his rise to power was greatly due to faction, showing he was not undermined by
it.
Somerset’s fall
Did Undermine
Didn’t Undermine
1. Before his death, Thomas Seymour, had manipulated the
King against Somerset. This was continued by the Earl of
Warwick (later Northumberland) as he resented Somerset’s
autocratic leadership – this was worsened by Somerset’s lack
of care to keep in good opinion of the King himself
2. Somerset was opposed by the Earls of Arundel,
Southampton and Warwick in his attempt to make a new
council
3. Edward abandoned his uncle
4. October 1549 – Somerset was sent to the tower and the
Council was reformed under the Earl of Warwick
Somerset was severely undermined by faction as it was ultimately the driving force
behind his fall from power. Somerset was ironically undermined by members of his
own faction, such as Warwick (Northumberland), but they did not agree with his style
of rule, and Northumberland was more radical that him.
How far did faction undermine the good
governance of England under Northumberland?
Did Undermine
1.
2.
3.
Northumberland – rival of
Somerset – Council
Encouraged Edward to lose favour
with Somerset
Disliked use of dry stamp and
proclamations
Did Not Undermine
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Northumberland takeover – good
for governance – Religion clear –
protection of Protestantism, wars
ended (France and Scotland) and
debasement finished
Crown lands sold to strengthen
financial situation
Led more through the Council and
used Parliament more – inner
committees of Council – business
more efficient
Lady Jane Grey Plot – what
Edward wanted – religion
Lady Jane Grey plot failed –
normality resumed very quickly
after
Key
Political
Religious
Economic
Foreign
Was the Lady Jane Grey Plot an example of
Northumberland’s power-grabbing nature?
Case in favour of Northumberland
1.
Not behind change in succession - “My
devise” – Edward’s succession
2. Protection of Protestantism – Mary
catholic
3. Lady Jane Grey was in succession after
Mary and Elizabeth before – strong
claim to throne – Line of Henry’s sister
Mary
4. Crown lands sold to strengthen financial
situation – good ruler
5. Edward against Mary – religion
6. Elizabeth – faith questionable
7. Lady Jane Grey – Protestant – no doubt
8. Pope as head of the church not wanted
9. Guildford Dudley – Northumberland’s
son – few nobles of suitable age
10. Charles V – related to Mary – did not
want England to become a part of
Spanish empire
11. Edward dying – high priority
Case against Northumberland
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Power from Somerset – personal gain in
the past
Edward – ill – mind not clear –
manipulated – will illegal
Against Henry’s wishes – Edward, Mary,
Elizabeth and then Lady Jane Grey –
could not legally change wishes of Henry
without going through Parliament
Still caretaker government under Lady
Jane Grey – only 15 – father-in-law – can
manipulate Lady Jane Grey
Elizabeth could have ruled – Protestant –
personal gain for Northumberland
Had desire for wealth and power – give
crown lands – keep own supporters
Changes in “religious beliefs” in past to
gain power – Mary succeeded –
Northumberland claimed himself
Catholic
Was Protestantism the correct interest?
– threat from Charles V
Key
Political
Religious
Economic
Foreign
‘Personal ambitions rather than religious
differences explain the bitter factional
rivalries of the Tudor Court in the years
1539- 53’. How far do you agree?
1.) The Fall of Cromwell 1540 due to the
protestant marriage to Anne of Cleves (horse’s
mare). Duke of Norfolk got niece Catherine
Howard as Queen. Did he to want control her
as she was attractive but not politically wise?
1.) Fall of Cromwell by Norfolk may have
wanted a Catholic (Howard) Queen rather
protestant (Cleves).
2.) 1546 – Plot against Parr. Norfolk believed
2.)1543 - Catherine Parr marriage good for
that Catherine had a dangerous influence on
reformists
the King and pressured him to accept reformist
views. – FAILED – Gardiner went to the king to
alert him of her heretical views and offer to
gather evidence against her. She was forgiven
when she made a grovelling apology.
3.) Fall of Gardiner in late 1546. refused to
hand over ecclesiastical lands to Henry.
Under the act of attainder declared Norfolk
and the earl of Surrey (Norfolks son) for
planning to control Edward after h8 death. ALL
WANTED POWER.
1547 – execution of Surrey = collapse of the
conservative faction.
3.) 1543 - Gardiner tries to oust Cranmer by
stating he’s still preaching and continued to
promote reformers. but failed as Henry
supported him by giving him a ring. H8 put
Cranmer in charge of the investigation that
was supposed to unseat him.
Personal
Religious
4.) Fall of Thomas Seymour – power
struggle between him and Somerset. He
plotted to marry Elizabeth (third in line for
the succession) execution March 1549
5.) Fall of Somerset – October 1549 sent
to the tower. 1552 executed.
Northumberland did not like his
autocratic rule.
6.) the rise of Northumberland
Elton: ‘exceedingly ambitious of power
and very greedy’ . Allied himself with
Conservatives in a desire to halt religious
change (Act of Six Articles 1539). But
moved to Cranmer and the reformers
once in position.
Lady Jane Grey Plot 1553
– devoted protestant whereas Mary was
staunchly Catholic.
BUT Grey was Northumberland’s
daughter in law so could control her if she
was Queen.
Conclusion
• In the final analysis, factional rivalries were a
mainly to due personal ambitions but used
religion as a tool for undermining others. The
most important reason demonstrating this in
the Tudor Court is Somerset executing his own
brother to maintain England with his
autocratic ruling. It is clearly difficult, however,
to separate the political from the religious. A
prime example of this was the LJG plot.
How far did faction undermine the good
governance of England 1539-53?
Analytical notes from the new
textbook – to be used in conjunction
with other notes.
Did undermine – Henry VIII
•
•
•
•
Henry was ill (incapacitated by varicose ulcers) and thus physically unable to
dominate government.
1530s – faction became more serious. Power and patronage became mixed up
with religion (explain factions).
Fall of Cromwell – Conservative faction thought Cromwell’s reforms had gone too
far. E.g. lesser role of sacraments in Bishops’ Book of 1537 and discouragement of
pilgrimages in Royal Injunctions of 1538. They got the Act of Precedence passed
which gave many conservative peers positions in the Privy Council, thereby
weakening Cromwell’s position. They also used Cromwell’s unsuccessful Anne of
Cleve’s marriage tactic against him. The Duke of Norfolk used his niece Catherine
Howard to entice Henry and turned against Cromwell, claiming that he was a
heretic. Cromwell was accused of treason and heresy and tried and executed in
July 1540. The Conservative faction had pushed Henry against a very good Chief
Minister and Henry regretted this afterwards. Marillac, the French Ambassador,
reported him to be gloomy.
Henry did marry Catherine Howard – another victory for the Conservatives.
Did undermine – Henry VIII cont….
• The reformists produced evidence of Catherine Howard’s adultery much to
Henry’s fury. The Conservative faction was wounded as was Henry.
Catherine’s relatives were imprisoned and had property taken. The Duke
of Norfolk, Catherine’s uncle, took himself away from court.
• Evidence – large numbers of executions for insurrection, treason and
heresy in Henry’s final years.
• AGR Smith; ‘Henry was at best only in partial control of factional intrigues’
• Henry bemoaned faction ‘flouting royal authority’ in his Christmas Eve
speech of 1545.
• Catherine Parr was a reformist and possibly slightly undermined H’s stance
on religion by introducing reformist scholars at court and by having
Edward and Elizabeth educated at Protestants.
• To gain ground after the Parr marriage, the Conservatives produced
evidence of heresy against Cranmer in 1543. Henry was seemingly unable
to control this factional rivalry.
Did undermine – Henry VIII cont….
• The Conservatives plotted against Catherine Parr, Henry’s own
wife!
• From 1546, Denny, a reformer, was made Chief Gentleman of
the King’s Privy Chambers and was authorised to witness the
use of the Dry Stamp.
• The Earl of Surrey, the Duke of Norfolk’s son made much of his
royal heritage through his Plantagenet blood ( royal family
before the Tudors). He bore the arms of Edward the
Confessor. Although trying to gain some kudos after defeat
against the French, this was still dangerous for an ailing Henry.
• The victorious reformists kept Henry’s death a secret for 3
days whilst they manipulated his will (cf notes on the triumph
of Seymour and the demise of the Regency Council)
Did undermine – Edward VI
• Somerset becoming leader was disastrous for the governance
of England (cf his personality & leadership style, his foreign,
economic social and religious policies. His dealings with the
rebellions.)
• Factionalism was rife under Somerset, mainly due to his
divisive leadership style. His own brother, Thomas Seymour,
was disappointed that he did not have a role on the Privy
Council and Somerset gave him a place. Thomas continued to
scheme to win the favour of Edward VI.
• The Earl of Warwick, later Northumberland, was Somerset’s
rival on the Council. He encouraged Edward to turn against his
uncle, Somerset. Warwick resented Somerset’s autocratic
leadership, particularly his sole use of the dry Stamp and his
constant use of proclamations (not going through Parliament).
Finally, Somerset was overthrown (explain causes)
Did undermine – Edward VI cont….
• Edward was probably manipulated against Somerset by Thomas Seymour
as well as the Earl of Warwick. The latter was extremely ambitious and
resented Somerset’s high-handed leadership style. He was very clever in
gaining power, initially siding with the Conservatives and then switching to
the Reformers and the King’s side. He later ejected the Conservatives from
the Council.
• The Lady Jane Grey plot. Northumberland subverted the succession due to
selfish motives (cf his potential execution under Catholic Mary; marriage
of his son – Guildford Dudley – to LJG; illegal for a minor to change a
previous King’s stipulated succession; Parliament didn’t accept changes
before Edward died etc.) Northumberland kept Edward’s death a secret for
2 days whilst he bullied the Council into accepting the devise
Did not undermine – Henry VIII
• Reformist faction could not stop John Lambert from being executed after
him denying real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Henry presided over
the trial and followed up with a proclamation confirming
transubstantiation and clerical celibacy. A year later Henry passed the proCatholic Act of 6 Articles, including reassertion of communion in both
kinds (The Reformists didn’t feel that they could stop Henry’s wishes).
• Henry was in control of policy, even in his later years and even when it
turned out to be problematic. (e.g. He led an army of 48,000 into battle in
June 1544; he decided to lay siege to Boulogne and he called for
debasement.
• It could be argued that Henry, not the Reformist or Conservative factions,
dictated religious policy (cf Act of 6 Articles, King’s Book and the Act for
the Advancement of True Religion.) In his Christmas Eve speech of 1545,
he criticised factional struggle and stated that his decision to steer a
middle way with religion was the only option.
Religion Revision
Differences in the church
Protestant
Catholic
Plain glass windows, plain
vestements , whitewashed
walls
Stained glass windows, ornate
vestements, wall paintings
Wooden table
Large ornate altar with
candles and gold crosses on a
white cloth
English scriptures on walls
Painting and statues
No lamps
Candles and lamps
No rood screen
Rood screen between
congregation and altar
Minister faces congregation
Priest faces altar during mass
Flagon- communion in both
kinds
Chalice- communion in one
kind
Summary of religious change from 1547-1566
On a scale from 1-10, How Protestant/Catholic was England under Edward,
Mary and Elizabeth?
Protector Somerset 1547-49
Background
• Henry left religion in England ambiguous- 1539- all 7
sacraments in Act of 6 articles. But pushed towards
Protestantism with translation of Bible into English.
• Avid Protestant , kept protestant household and became a
correspondent of Calvin.
• Some progress towards Protestantism
however, he feared dangers associated
with the reform.
How Protestant did England become under Somerset?
CA – Not protestant
1. Governmental Laws
Didn't enforce persecution – e.g. tolerated
Princess Mary’s Catholicism,
2. Appearance of Church
• Alters and traditional vestments retained
• Discouraged worship of images of saints (not
banned)
3. Religious Legislation
• First prayer Book 1549- included
Transubstantiation
• Fast and holy days remained
• 5 Sacraments- Eucharist, baptism, last rites
confirmation, marriage- = slightly catholic a,
but there is still only 5 out of 7.
MA – Protestant
1. Governmental Laws
• Royal Injunction 1547- forbid respecting
images of saints
• First Act of Uniformity- Made the book of
common prayer official liturgy
2. Appearance of Church
• Iconoclasm- Sept 1547- images torn down in St
Paul’s London = Historiography 3. Religious Legislation
• Book of Homilies 1547- by Cranmer, included
one Lutheran belief “ Sola Fide”(justification of
faith alone). Placed in every Church by end of
1549
• First Prayer Book 1549- By Cranmer (outlining
form of worship) included Transubstantiation
but no sacrifice involved. Service in English
MA- Historiography- “in effecting major Protestant reforms in the church” M. L.
Bush
Conclusion= J- Moderately protestant
MR- First Prayer Book- moved towards Protestantism, English services, put in every church
DO- What aspect your looking at, e.g. appearance of Church slightly more catholic . But the
legislation was predominantly Protestantism.
Northumberland and
Religion 1550-1553
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
John Dudley
Earned military reputation.
Held many positions such as Earl of Warwick and Lord Great
Chamberlain.
Crushed Robert Kett’s rebellion.
Planned Somerset's removal.
Was Protestant but also claimed to be Catholic. (e.g. At the
scaffold)
Executed 22 August 1553 by Mary I.
How far had Protestantism taken root
from 1550 to 1553?
• Not very: ‘great majority of the
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
English…People did not want the
Reformations.’ (Hutton)
42 Articles
The Articles themselves never became
Parliamentary law.
Wills
The change in wills only took place in 2
counties with the majority being done by
the wealthy elites in the cities and urban
areas who were more likely to be
protestant.
Didn’t represent the whole population.
Parliament
270 out of 350 MP's voted for the
Protestant legislation repeal. This was the
majority on the matter.
• Very: ‘four years of exposure to… English
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
services could not have been without affect.’
(Duffy)
Second book of common Prayer (1552)
‘With the advent of the second Prayer Book
the worship of English church could be
described as fully reformed’ (Loades)
Second Act of uniformity (1552)
Supported Second book of Common Prayer
and enforced Church of England attendance.
New Treason Act (1552)
Made it an offense to challenge articles of
faith
42 Articles (1552)
Based on Justification of faith alone, written
by Cranmer.
Wills
20% (60%-40%) drop in Catholic wills in
Nottinghamshire and Yorkshire. 30% (60%90%) rise in Protestant wills in Kent.
Parliament
80 out of 350 MP’s voted against the repeal
of Protestant legislation.
The conclusion
• Judgement: Moderately protestant
• Main reason: The majority of legislation supported and enforced
Protestant views with articles such as the Second Book of Common
Prayer which was enforced in most parishes.
• Depends on: Aspect:
• Theoretically Protestantism had taken root, especially seen in
governmental proceedings via legislation.
• Practically, Protestantism was widely disliked with the majority
supporting Catholicism.
Mary I
Background
• Became Queen in 1553, died in 1558
• Married Phillip II of Spain 1554
• Often seen as a failure; involved England with French and Spanish War-Resulted in the loss
of Calais
Religion
• Staunchly Catholic-returned to Papal supremacy in 1554
• Repealed all Protestant legislation from Edward and Henry’s reigns (First and second act of
repeal)
• Gave up title as Head of Church
Mary’s personal piety
• Saw her popularity as endorsement of Catholic faith not unpopularity of Northumberland
or want of legitimate Queen
• Rescue England from ‘mortal sin’
• Misguided idea that her subjects were Roman Catholic and had been led astray
• Saw Protestant reformers as heretics/ ‘the Devil’s agents’ ( maybe too rash and too fast)
• She did not listen to her advisers e.g Charles V, Pope Julius III – they urged a caution
because moving too quickly leads to unrest
Religious Development in Mary’s Reign (s =
success; f = failure)
•
1553: August: Protestant clergy deprived of livings (if married)
•
•
•
September: Cranmer arrested.
Autumn: Act of supremacy repeal refused by Parlt (f). First Act of repeal passed. Edwardian
reformation acts repealed. State of 1547 now exists (Mass, transubstantiation, clerical celibacy,
rituals etc.) (s)
December: Mary gave up title of Supreme Head of Church. (f)
•
1554: January: Protestant mass exodus (800) (s)
•
•
March: Royal Injunctions issued – restored Holy Days (s) 10-25% of Priests lost post (s)
April: Parliament initially rejected Heresy laws (f), but accepted after told no restoration of
monastic lands (s/f).
November: Cardinal Pole returned to England. Excommunication lifted. Second Act of Repeal
passed – Back to pre-Henrician Reformation (all s)
•
•
1555: Bishop Bonner’s Book of Homilies (s)
•
•
•
•
•
January: Commission to look into Refounding of some religious houses (s)
February: Burnings began with John Rogers.
October: Ridley and Latimer burned.
November: Gardiner died (f). Cranmer deprived of position (s)
December: Reginald Pole named as Archbishop of Canterbury (s)
• 1556: February: Twelve Decrees issued by Synod against clerical abuses (e.g.
•
pluralism, absenteeism) (s) Refoundation of Benedictine House at Westminster (s)
Protestants burned for heresy.
March: Cranmer burned at stake. Cardinal Pole argued with Pope Paul IV and
deprived of position as Legate (f) Pole consecrated Archbishop of Canterbury (s).
• 1557: June: Small religious houses refounded (s).
•
Pole charged with heresy in Rome (s). Mary refused him permission to go and
rejected replacement legate (s/f)
• 1558: November: 5 protestants burned.
•
17 November: Mary and Pole died.
300 burned in total.
Did Mary’s Policy fail? No
Positives “The Marian reconstruction of Catholicism was a success” Haigh
•Compromise- Did not restore all monastic lands- recognised cost and possible rebellion
•12 decrees improved clerical standards- aimed to stop pluralism and nepotism
•Encouragement of strong leadership- Bishop visitations to check standards
•Focus on clerical education- Pole’s seminars aimed to improve standard of preaching “Help to produce
a new generation of learned and devout catholic scholars” Loades
•Catholic new testament- helped the clergy
•Used pro government writers such as Miles Hogarde; tracts in defence of the regime
•Bishops made regular visits of their dioceses to check finances and discipline of clergy.
•These form part of the ‘Top Down Strategy’.
Excuses
•Brevity of the reign- 5 years was not enough for full reform “Could not all be crushed and the
indifferent could not all be made enthusiasts- at least not in five years” C.Haigh
•New Pope was in a dispute with Phillip
•Catholic leaders were aiming to inform rather then persuade
•Death of Pope Julius III 1555- friend of Pole
•Pole did not focus on ecclesiastical policy
Why did Mary’s religious policy fail ?
Time
• Very Brief reign- only 5 years “Could not all be crushed and the indifferent could
not all be made enthusiasts- at least not in five years” Haigh
• Unable to take advantage of propaganda and publishing (L1)
• Poles Plans took too long to have an effect- Financial survey took 18 months to
complete (L2)
• Only 1557 when small religious houses re-founded (L3)
• 12 decrees issued in in 1556- not enough time to implement them before her
death
Cost
• Restoration of Catholicism was very expensive- Gold crosses and statue needed to
be replaced “Catholic reformation cost money” Loades
• England’s finances could not cope with full restoration (L2)
• Very expensive to restore Monasteries (L3)
Leadership
• Poles refusal to accept help- rejected Jesuits offer to preach in England 1555
• Leadership of Bishops (L4)- 6 sees left vacant for majority of the reign
Why did Mary’s Religious policy fail?
Backfiring of the Burnings
• Protestants burned heroically- increased Protestant support
“Protestantism gained much more than it lost by being subjected to
persecution” Loades
• Necessary to introduce curfews at time of burnings due to public support
• Burnings rare in England but common in Spain- fuelled anti-Spanish feeling
Failure of war of words
“less effective a imposing conformity than the Edwardian Church” Loades
• Failed to seize opportunities (L1)- religious debates in Oxford were not
publicised
• Catholic leaders were focused on writing to inform rather than persuade
(L4)
• Latimer and Ridley still wrote Prot. Pamphlets from jail
• 19,000 copies of 1552 Prot Prayer Book still in circulation
• Twice the number of critical pamphlets to supportive ones.
Why did Mary’s Religious policy fail?
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•
•
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•
•
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•
•
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•
Mistakes by Mary.
She was over-zealous with burning.
Misguided belief that she was popular because of her catholic faith whereas it was due
to Northumberland's unpopularity
Misguided assessment that majority of her subjects were Roman Catholic, however,
lots of them had become more protestant with Northumberland’s reforms.
Repealed everything over period of 3 years 1553-55 can be argued that undid
everything too quickly as it took years to be implemented by Henry and Edward
Appointment of Pole
Mistakes by Pole.
Didn’t give religion his full attention. Too concerned with foreign policy.
18 months – too long to overhaul church finances
Left 6 bishoprics vacant. Prots in place until April 1554.
Rejected the help of Jesuits (Staunch Catholic missionaries) from abroad.
Did Mary go too far too fast?
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Yes
Misguided belief that she was popular because of her catholic faith whereas it
was due to Northumberland's unpopularity
Misguided assessment that majority of her subjects were Roman Catholic,
however, lots of them had become more protestant with Northumberland’s
reforms.
Repealed everything over period of 3 years 1553-55 can be argued that undid
everything too quickly as it took years to be implemented by Henry and Edward
No
Evidence to show some of her subjects were eager to restore her old faith. E.g.
Oxford, chalices were brought out to celebrate mass.
Mary didn’t want to “compel or constrain other men’s consciences”- she didn’t
want to force Catholicism.
Not too fast as she didn’t repeal everything in one year, repealed legislation over
period of 3 years 1553-1555.
Mary’s Religious Historiography
1. ‘ Catholic restoration costs money’ = Loades
2. ‘Indifferent could not all be made enthusiastsat least not in 5 years’ = Haigh
3.‘ Protestantism gained much more than it lost
being subjected to persecution’ = Loades
The Elizabethan Settlement (1559)
• Green = Prot, Blue = Compromise, Red = Catholic
The Act of Supremacy of 1559 re-established the Church of England's independence from Rome, with Parliament conferring on
Elizabeth the title Supreme Governor of the Church of England, while the Act of Uniformity of 1559 outlined what form the
English Church should take, including the re-establishment of the Book of Common Prayer.
In the first Act Elizabeth became Supreme Governor of the Church...
•
This appeased the Catholics who could only ever consider the Pope to be God's appointed on Earth, and it pleased others
who could not bear to think that a human could be God's appointed on Earth - that was Christ.
The second Act stated that:
•
1552 Book of Common Prayer should be used under pain of imprisonment (but, more based on 1549 in practice)
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Everyone had to attend church on a Sunday or a Holy day or pay a fine.
•
Fines were imposed for slandering the Prayer Book or trying to prevent its proper use.
•
The wording of communion allowed for differing interpretations (including transubstantiation).
•
Church vestements from the 2nd year of the reign of Edward were to be reintroduced.
•
All members of the clergy were to swear an Oath of Supremacy.
•
It was a mixture between the religious legislation of Edward's reign and that of the reign of Henry VIII.
She also managed to pass through a number of other Acts later…..
•
She repealed the Marian Heresy laws.
•
She set up a commission to ensure order in the churches, and to stamp out ill practice.
•
Clergy had to preach at least four times per year.
•
Each parish had to have a complete copy of the Bible in English.
•
An article on Eucharist denied the presence of Christ during the Eucharist.
•
Dissolution of the monasteries and chantries that Mary had restored.
•
Act of Exchange meant that the Queen could claim the revenue from vacant sees.
•
Royal Injunctions of 1559 – Communion table where altar had stood
•
1560 – Catholic masses for the dead allowed
•
1561 – Clerical marriage allowed but wives and children of higher clergy were evicted from colleges & cathedral closes.
•
1563 – 39 instead of 42 Articles. Moderately Protestant
What sort of church did Elizabeth want?
• Elizabeth’s personal preference was a church with a protestant doctrine
which retained the traditional structure and catholic ritual.
• She wanted a church which combined protestant doctrines with catholic
ceremonies.
• By maintaining an outward appearance that was familiar and comforting,
the Queen could avoid the social upheavals of Edward’s reign and reassure
foreign Catholic powers that the church in England had not changed so
very much.
• It was still obvious that Elizabeth’s church was Protestant.
• By steering a middle route (VIA MEDIA), Elizabeth was aiming to create a
church which was acceptable to the majority of her people. She wanted to
avoid persecution and civil war.
• As long as there was outward conformity (i.e. people went to church and
the Act of Uniformity was followed), Elizabeth was not too worried about
people’s personal beliefs. She ‘did not want to create windows into men’s
souls’
Factors that influenced the Elizabethan Settlement
Key Factors.
Their relevance- in order (least relevant down to most)
The influence of the Church
-The clergy were solidly Catholic
-12 bishoprics remained unfilled at the end of Mary’s reign
The views of the English
Population
-Majority of the population were conservative. Catholicism remained in rural areas
-Protestantism was stronger in towns
particularly amongst the gentry.
-Religious changes had caused rebellion and unrest in the reigns of her father and her siblings
The Council
Elizabeth excluded 15 out of 26 of Mary’s council.
the newcomers were still inclined towards moderate Protestantism.
Elizabeth appointed William Cecil, a Protestant, as her personal secretary
Elizabeth’s situation
-‘The Child of the Reformation’, Elizabeth was born the product of a divorce.
-Elizabeth was perceived as illegitimate by ardent Catholics.
-She believed that she was the rightful ruler of all England, including its church.
Elizabeth’s beliefs
-Dickens: ‘Elizabeth was an admirer but not a mental replica of her father’
-She did not want to ‘build windows into men’s souls’
-John Guy – Liz was a Protestant with conservative leanings
-Haigh – moderate Protestant
-AGR Smith – Liz was mainly a wily political operator.
The Spanish Alliance
-Elizabeth was still at war with France and therefore dependent on the Spanish alliance.
-Philip was very concerned that France and Scotland would invade England and put M,Q of S. This would cut off the Channel and
links to the Spanish Netherlands for the Spanish.
-Port of Antwerp in the Spanish Netherlands, was vital for English trade.
The Lutheran States
-Lutheran states were a valuable ally to Elizabeth. They would have been in favour of a moderately Protestant English Church and
would have been repelled by anything more radical.
France
-French were keen to see Elizabeth removed since they controlled a rival candidate to the English throne
-The Pope might be persuaded by the French to support an invasion of England.
The Pope
-The Pope could call on the Catholic powers in Europe to lead a religious crusade against England
-The pope had hinted at Elizabeth’s illegitimacy
To what extent did Elizabeth
achieve her church settlement/
Paragraphs
•
1. Intro – Outline factors –
( Challenge assumption did she achieve her church settlement)
1. Outside influence - Catholic
(Spanish alliance/Pope/France)
2. Outside influence - Protestant
(Lutheran State)
3. Internal influence - Catholic
(House of Lords/ Influence of the church)
4. Internal influence - Protestant
(Elizabeth’s beliefs/Elizabeth’s situation/Views of the English people/Council)
5. Conclusion – which is the most significant factor and why? What does the answer
depend on? Time
Opposition to the Church Settlement of
1559 was strong up to 1566.
• Puritans
• Strong ideas. Thought C of E was not
Prot. Enough (e.g. Prayer Book, too
much ritual, vs. vestements, sign of
cross, holy days, kneeling for Holy
Communion.
• Threat to Liz. She was anti – Puritan
and saw their views as a threat to her
rule. Eg Puritans = prepared to
challenge Liz’s authority.
• Leader = Thomas Cartwright –
Professor of Divinity (Religion) at
Cambridge. Lots of Influence.
• Influence in H of C – steadily more
Puritan. E.g. Historian Neale’s ‘Puritan
Choir’ – 12-16 members 1559.
• Support of Leading nobles – E.g. Earl
of Leicester.
• Support of Universities
• Catholics
• Catholics regarded Elizabeth as
illegitimate and therefore not the
rightful heir to the throne
• Elizabeth’s heir, Mary Queen of Scots,
was Catholic & half-French
• See M,Q of S notes for further details
of plots etc.
• RC remained strong in rural areas.
• Fines for recusants (Catholic nonattendees at church) were not
enforced by local magistrates
Opposition to the Church Settlement of
1559 was not strong up to 1566.
• Puritans
• Elizabeth’s opposition. She was very
anti-Puritan. She regarded them as
dangerous as they were prepared to
challenge the authority of a secular
ruler if they thought it was the will of
God.
• The C of E was very strict in enforcing
uniformity. No leeway was given to
the Puritans
• Catholics
• Most Catholics were ‘Church Papists’.
They were prepared to compromise
with the C of E.
• Changes were slow and therefore did
not really lead to uprisings.
• Even when M,Q of S arrived in
England (1568 – after 1566), most
Catholics supported Liz.
• Liz kept foreign ambassadors thinking
that she would return to Catholicism
one day.
• 8000 Lower Clergy took the Oath of
Supremacy.
Summary of Religious change continued
• Mary:
The First Statute of Repeal 1553, The Second Statute of Repeal 1555: These two
policies succeeded in removing all of the legislation in Edward’s reign and Henry’s
reign after 1529. this also involved making the Pope head of the church. This was a
massive move towards restoring Catholicism but always eliminated a protestant
movement by destroying all previous legislation. Although there was a move away
from Protestantism, the use of Burnings by Mary could have given the Protestant
movement more credibility.
• Elizabeth:
Act of Supremacy 1559: The Pope’s authority was completely abolished, so there
was a big move away from Catholicism. Also, the Protestant legislation from Henry
and Edwards reign was restored for example the 1549 Prayer Book. Another
protestant doctrine adopted was communion in both kinds.
Mary – Marriage
Successes/Excuses
Failures
Mary needed to Mary to get a Catholic heir. Liz was
Protestant therefore leaving Mary without a Catholic
legacy
Marriage was a PR disaster. Widespread xenophobia.
Philip had a bad reputation for how he dealt with
Dutch subjects. Fear that Philip would take crown and
use England as a mere province of Spain
Her choice was very limited. Problems with
Courtenay and Pole as subjects- Prince Philip was the
best option
Things got worse. Philip was excommunicated by the
Pope. Later England joined in war against France and
lost Calais
Advantages to marrying a Spaniard – advice for Mary.
Political, military and economic support from the
most powerful nation in the world. Philip helped
rebuild English navy.
Philip spent very little time in England. Hence, no
children (Mary was at end of child-bearing age
anyway). Prot. Liz succeeded Mary.
Marriage itself was orchestrated so that Mary was in
charge. No Spanish spoken. Mary on right. Philip not
allowed a sword- message to the people to show the
lack of power from Spain
Philip did involve himself in English affairs, despite the
treaty and, held the title of King as joint sovereign
Marriage treaty was excellent for England. Philip not
to involve England in Spain’s wars. No rights to
Kingdom after M’s death. No Spanish officials etc. P
Mary – Foreign Affairs
Successes/Excuses
Failures
1553-6. Mary mediated between France and Spain. She wasn’t
necessarily dancing to a Spanish tune. This was even after PII fell out
with the Pope. At first she refused him naval supplies and support and
finance.
England alienated. Spain and
France signed a separate truce
at Vaucelles in 1556.
England did eventually go to war with France in 1557, but there are a
number of good reasons for this. French welcomed English Prots to
France. Rumours French wanted Calais. Stafford invasion, landing at
Scarborough (supplied with French arms). French confiscated an
English merchant ship. Parlt agreed to go to war as they were going in
at the end and should have received spoils of war.
It could be argued that these
reasons are insufficient for
England to go to war v France.
War could have been positive. Possibility of uniting the country. Prots
offered to lead forces. England’s military position had improved
considerably (now 21 first class ships – previously 3). Militia act
improved methods to raise troops.
England was not really in a position
to go to war – certainly financially.
Mary should have concentrated on
domestic issues.
The war had a number of successes. English navy cleared French
shipping out of Channel; provided convoy to protect Spanish fleet up
Atlantic coast. Successful assault on St. Quentin. Defeat of Scots.
St. Quentin was really a Spanish
victory. Only 5,000 English troops
with 70,000 Imperial troops.
Calais was not that much of a loss. Economic impact vastly
exaggerated. Strategically less important. Costly to maintain too.
England was also let down by Spain. No help from PII, during a surprise
winter attack by the French. Only had 2,000 troops as opposed to the
French 27,000. Mary could have tried to take back Calais with Spanish
support, but she died.
Spain abandoned England. So
much for the alliance. The loss of
Calais was a massive blow to
morale.
Pilgrimage of Grace
CAUSES/AIMS
Causes
PRESORAMA
Aims
PRESORAMA
NOT DANGEROUS
DANGEROUS
1. Multi-faceted: D of M (E.G. Mostly affected the North – not
very widespread appeal?) Economic (E.G. Poor harvests of 1535
& 1536, taxation) Aristocratic feud (Suggested that the uprising
was organised by the nobles who wanted to increase their power
and influence at court).
Summary: Furthermore, of the aims listed, there was not a lot of
widespread appeal, as they only affected specific groups or areas
of people. (R, E, M, A)
1. D of M - monasteries = foundation of everyday life (R)
2. Enclosure – common land made into private = nowhere for
commoners to graze animals = shortage of food.(S, E)
3. Rack renting – increasing rent prices (S,E)
COMMON CAUSES – widespread APPEAL & MULTI-FACETED
1. Multi-faceted: Religious (E.G. They wanted the pope to be
supreme head of the church again (Pontefract Articles,
December 1546)) Political (E.G. They wanted Mary to be made
legitimate (Pontefract Articles, December 1536)) Economic (E.G.
They wanted tax on sheep to be removed (York Articles, October
1536).
2. Peaceful Intentions: No plan to overthrow the monarchy
(Their issue was with Henry’s ministers) York Articles, October
1536 (Respectful language suggests they were peaceful towards
Henry). Cromwell was the central target not Henry.
Summary: The rebels showed disunity and did not prove to be a
threat to Henry’s reign. Aske continually emphasised his peaceful
intentions throughout the rebellion. (P, R, E, O, R, A, M)
1. Restoration of Monasteries (R, A)
2. Removal of Cranmer & Cromwell – seen as heretics, &
blamed for tax rises & new religion. Wanted to replace him
with a noble from birth because they believed in the great
chain of being. (R, E, Removal of ministers)
3. Pontefract Articles - demanding language, removal of new
religion & ministers, & aggressive tone/
4. Multi-faceted – This meant there was a widespread appeal,
and involved more rebels.
Removal of Cranmer & Cromwell, restoration of monasteries ,
demanding set of articles.
* They were not “rebels” they were pilgrims. It was a religious
journey. They wanted change not violence.
P of G
EVENTS/GOVERNMENT RESPONSE
Events
VLEANDDEM
Gov.t
Response
VLEANDDEM
NOT DANGEROUS
DANGEROUS
1. Weak Leadership (E.G. Melton (cobbler), Bigod (few
followed), Aske (not looking for violence))
2. Disunity among rebels (E.G. gentry and commoners “fell
out” – thought the nobility were trying to delay their
progress)
3. “Series of interconnected regional revolts”, Bush
Summary: Many nobles remained loyal to Henry and
therefore it can be suggested that they hindered the rebels’
progress. Furthermore, Bush suggests it was not a mass
rebellion after one thing. (V, L, E)
•
1. Clever Tactics (E.G. Henry offered them a pardon – didn’t
need to resort to violence)
2. Council of North reorganised (re-assert control –
unlikely to happen again)
3. 8,000 troops sent to control (Compared to 30,000 rebels
– easy to control)
4. Executions (178 – allowed Henry to show his power and
control over the rebellion)
Summary: Henry did not need to resort to violence to break
up the rebellion and ensured it would not happen again by
reorganising his councils to put loyal councillors in place. (V,
D, E)
1. Leaders executed (Aske, Darcy, Bigod) – shows
government scared. (V, D, E)
2. Council of the North – to control North centrally (L)
3. Negotiation – reluctantly accepted by rebels, shows
he was vulnerable to attack – SMALL ARMY (8,000)
4. 178 deaths, including executions (V, D)
Over-reacted – turned a peaceful protest into full blown
rebellion, DID NOT listen to first York Articles
(peaceful).
•
•
•
Large support – 30,000 rebels in total vs. 8,000
soldiers. (N, M)
Spread quickly – multifaceted=wide appeal & NOBLE
support (Archbishop of York). (L) – led by ASKE –
lawyer = can be persuasive & good power base
30,000 strong, noble support & good leadership + will
to fight = dangerous threat.
Managed to seize control of Pontefract Castle – Lord
Darcy swears an oath to the Pilgrims
GOVERNMENT RESPONSE.
Council of
the North
Truce
Leaders executed
Pardon
Percy
family
False
Promises
It was a tactic to create
divisions and waste time,
showing the Government
were scared. However this
may not have been the
intention.
Executed
178
Need to execute
Major threat
Not a threat
The Government may have been
running scared as they was allowing
demands, showing the rebellion
may have been threatening.
Did the P of G seriously threaten the
authority of the Monarch?
•
•
•
•
No – No real threat to monarch, no intention
to over throw him, Aske asked for forgiveness
from the King and they always stated their
peaceful intentions e.g by swearing an oath
of loyalty and through the articles.
No - There was no attempt to overthrow the
King but rather his chief advisor Thomas
Cromwell, who was responsible for the
religious changes.
No – Rebellion was the only way for
commoners to voice their grievances – not
involved much in parliament (Great Chain of
being – expected to be looked after).
No – was intended as a PEACEFUL protest –
was blown out of proportion by the
authorities.
Yes – Religious causes likely
to arouse strong passions, &
support of Northern nobles,
Henry had little control over
them prior to the Council of
the North.
Yes – the Government had
no standing army at the
time/police force = would
have taken a long time to
gather forces.
What is the historiography surrounding this
rebellion?
Red = unreliable
Green = reliable
Dodds – Not Serious, BUT – source has
limited analysis = not reliable.
M.E. James – Serious, religious causes.
COURT FACTION:
Political elites
unhappy with
changes & the
monarchy – THEY
were responsible for
peasant’s
involvement.
POPULAR REVOLT:
Rebellion was a
truly popular
movement & was
joined by most
groups of society,
less dangerous.
Elton – Serious, people close to
the King involved.
S Gunn – Serious, population vs.
Henry.
M.L.Bush – Not serious, peaceful
protest & no threat to monarchy.
Was the P of G a threat to the authorities…What
does the answer depend on?
Aspect:
• Causes & Aims – suggest a lack of danger; no aim to threaten
government/ lack of violence.
• Events/GR – suggest more danger; government panicked as
they had no army & perceived the rebels as more of a threat
than they were.
• Meaning of authorities – Henry himself or the members of
Parliament?
• Time – were they dangerous only at a certain time, or was it a
continuous threat?
• Theory vs. Reality – did they actually pose a threat, or was it
just a fake threat?
Historiography on the 1549
rebellions
Bush claimed that “the government was not under
particular threat” and that “the government’s policy
towards the rebellions… was eminently successful”.
However John Guy believed that, “Somerset mishandled
the revolts” suggesting they were of a more dangerous
nature.
Western
Rebellion
Dangerous
Not dangerous
“massive demonstration against
local governing class… on a
mixture of social, economic and
religious discontents was coherent
and well organised.” – Fletcher &
MacCulloch
“Its suppression was only so prolonged
because the western rebellion coincided
with other rebellions”. – Fletcher
“The most formidable opposition
to the Reformation that England
ever saw” – Caraman
Kett’s Rebellion
“He (Somerset) relied on
pardons.” – John Guy
“the events… indicate a
breakdown of trust between the
governing class and the people” –
Fletcher & MacCulloch
“the rebellion never had a real chance of
forcing the government to make
concessions in its religious policy”. –
Fletcher
“plenty of evidence continued to justify the
government’s initial policy of delaying direct
military action.” – Bush
“Kett’s rebellion had much popular
adherence, though it was not a rebellion at
all but a demonstration for the
implementation of government policy.” –
Barrett L. Beer
Key:
Point
Evidence
Explanation
Western Rebellion 1549
Dangerous
Not Dangerous
C
Religion – strong moves towards Protestantism
Acts of six articles repealed
New prayer book
Would anger rebels and Somerset was unlikely to change
back to catholic ways.
Economic – Rumours of taxes
Already tax on sheep
Enclosure
The rumours would affect a lot of people, and they were
believable.
Religion – “grievances”
Time of new prayer book
From past events (Pilgrimage of grace) religious were more
likely to want negotiate – lack of violence.
Economic – Rumours
Investigation into chantries
Rumours can be easily solved peacefully
Multi faceted causes meant rebels were disorganised.
A
Demands to return to catholic ways
Wanted the return of act of six articles
Dangerous - Somerset couldn’t agree to this
Organised rebels
3 sets of articles dominated by religious grievances
Rebels posed a threat as they were organised and
determined
Rebels could easily be appeased
Images restored
Prayers for the dead
No aim to overthrow monarch = demands could be met
/negotiated peacefully.
E
Rebels were determined
Local priest forced to deliver traditional service and defy
government
Rebels were angry and willing to go to extreme lengths
Peter Carew attempted to stop rebels but didn’t succeed.
Rebels were dedicated wouldn’t go quietly
Rebels couldn’t pose a serious threat
Rebellion started in Bodmin, Cornwall
Far away from London
Only 6,000 rebels compared to PofG which had 30,00040,000
Handled bigger rebellions in the past would be easy to
disperse disorganised rebels especially as there were so
few.
G
Somerset was worried of rebels potential
Russell was urged by Somerset to stop rebels(small army
provided)
Somerset was desperate as main troops were in Scotland he
didn’t have a large army at his disposal.
Government was scared of rebels
3,000 executed
Needed to execute as they felt threatened
Avoided confrontation
Knew he wouldn’t win?
Government took control
3,000 executed
Not scared of any backlash
Each time the rebels were confronted they were pushed
further back
Never reached London or even got close –no threat
Government reaction was slow
Russell was sent to find a peaceful settlement
Not worried rebels didn’t pose serious threat
How dangerous was Kett’s Rebellion?
Ketts Rebellion was a revolt in Norfolk, England during the reign of Edward VI, largely in response to the enclosure of land. It
began at Wymondham on 8 July 1549 with a group of rebels destroying fences that had been put up by wealthy landowners.
Dangerous
Causes





Aims


Not Dangerous
Inflation had meant higher food prices 
and rents in the late 1540s.
Enclosure meant that poorer people 
lost their means of survival – this
effected a lot of people, wealth of
common land was not distributed
Taxes upset the rebels – this was
unlikely to change
Rents increased – worsened by the
rapid inflation
The whole of southern England a
significant part of the Midlands were
in a state of unrest
There was lots of hatred of increased
rent prices – easily fixed issue
Anger towards enclosure – this could
be easily fixed with strict controlling

There was no intention to overthrow
the monarch - anger aimed mainly
towards gentry and upper echelon.
Rebels were on the same side as
Somerset
Multifaceted aims e.g. improvement
of local Gov, removal of enclosures
Aims were unclear
3 sets of articles produced – suggests
the rebels anger was growing
Multifaceted aims – more reason to
protest




Events






Government Response




Test your
knowledge:
The size (16,000) and speed
(encamped on Mousehold heath
within 2 days – 10th July – 12th July)
paralysed the authorities of the
country
Kett was an organised leader
Rebels refused Somerset’s pardon
Rebellion only one month after the
Western Rebellion
City authorities attacked by the rebels
Gentry were powerless against the
well-established force


The Gov sent 1,800 on 30th July, 24
days later a force of 12,000 men were
sent – Gov showing fear
Northampton was sent = he was the
highest ranking Privy Councillor after
Somerset
The use of 1,000 Foreign Mercenaries
show threat towards authorities
Kett hung – Government threatened
by Kett’s existence?
Somerset was dealing with war with
France and Scotland at the time







3,000 rebels were killed during battle
There was no attempt to move
towards London – far from Monarch
Rebels were unorganised
Rebels supply lines cut
Little sign of violence at the beginning
The Gov was prepared –
Northumberland led 12,000 men in
Norwich (23rd August) – ground down
the rebels
Foreign Mercenaries used to swiftly
deal with rebels - Gov backed up
26th November – Kett hanged
-- 49 other rebels executed –
less than PofG = 178
21st July – Somerset offers pardons –
no threat?
P
R
E
S
O
R
A
M
A
V
L
E
A
N
D
D
E
M
Wyatt’s Rebellion, 1554
Causes & Aims
Dangerous
Not dangerous
1. Announcement of Mary’s marriage
treaty to Philip (Jan. 1554)
– Directly against Mary’s proposal (P).
1. Wyatt declared that it intended to give
the Queen better council but not
replace her. (O, Rem..)
2. Leading conspirators Protestant
- Mary was strongly Catholic (R)
2. Wyatt said “You may not so much as
name religion, for that will withdraw us
from the hearts of many.”
- Denies religious motives. (R)
3. Widespread xenophobia
– Dislike of Philip and his Spanish
interests. (P, App.)
4. Encouraged by the French ambassador,
who feared Spanish influence in
England.
- Support from foreign power (P)
Events
Dangerous
Not Dangerous
1. French to provide naval support. (V)
1. Courtenay forced to confess plans to
Government.
-which meant ¾ locations did not raise
support (L, Areas…)
2. Planned attacks using commoner
support (Kent, Herts, Devon,
Leicestershire), (Areas…).
2. Raised only 3,000 men, just 10% of that
in the P.o.G. (N)
3. Lead by Knights. (Sir James Croft, Sir
Peter Carew and Duke of Suffolk) (L).
5. Only lasted one month (Du…)
4. 3,000 rebels marched to London
4. Wyatt’s force began to disperse
unimpeded. (E)
-By the time they reached London, only
-500 London Whitecoats, sent by Mary,
1,000 remained.
defected and joined the rebellion.(M, N, E)
-By the time they reached Ludgate, only
300 remained. (N)
5. Wyatt managed to seize some ships and
cannons. (E)
Government Response
Dangerous
Not Dangerous
1. The Whitecoats rebelled against Mary.
(N, M)
1. Mary sent a force of only 500 Whitecoats
to subdue the rebels. (M)
2. Offered negotiation/pardon to delay
2. Mary made a successful appeal of
Wyatt’s force at Blackheath (Ev, M)
support to the Londoners. (Ev)
– attempt to stop them without violence.
3. 100 were executed, including Lady Jane
Grey who was not involved. (Ex)
3. Mary closed the gates and prevented the
rebels from entering, they were easily
stopped. (M)
Depends On
• Time – as the rebellion started it looked more
dangerous than it ended up as it lacked popular
support from surrounding regions.
• Potential danger – the factors surrounding the
rebellion meant that if everything went well the
result could have been disastrous for Mary.
• Aspect – some aspects make it seem more
dangerous such as the causes/aims where as the
events and govt. response suggest less danger.
Historiography
• Turvey & Heard – “Came as close as any to
overthrowing the monarchy.”
Extremely dangerous to Mary.
• Paul Thomas – “members of the court elite… felt
excluded or feared imminent exclusion.”
Members of the nobility led the rebellion.
• Lockyer and O’Sullivan – “caused some sticky
moments.”
At times difficult for the government to deal with.
Comparison to Other Rebellions (and
relative danger)
• Causes of Kett’s rebellion more social and economic
where as Wyatt’s was political.
• Also in Kett’s rebellion a force of 12,000 men were
sent by the government but Wyatt's involved just
500 white coats.
• More danger is signified through Ketts and the use of
foreign mercenaries or the Western from the 4,000
deaths.
• Pilgrimage of grace had limited in its danger as there
was no threat to Henry himself
How Dangerous Was The Northern
Rebellion 1569?
Northern Rebellion
PRESORAMA
Dangerous
C/A








E







G

Not Dangerous
Catholic faction (Anti-Cecil) led by Earls of Northumberland and Westmorland
(N+W) - in touch with Spain and Pope for military help. (R)
N + W lost status under Elizabeth meaning they would want to regain.
Northern nobility felt alienated- more likely to rebel and care less about
consequences due to their actions. (P)
Proclamation issued at Darlington “New nobles around the queen...overthrow
and put down the ancient nobility...misused the Queen” (P)Also accused govt.
“maintaining a new found religion and heresy, contrary to Gods word” (R)
Revisionist historians have seen the causes of the revolt largely as a reaction to
increasing royal power in the north. (P)
Religion- supported by Fletcher and MacCulloch due to appointment of a
protestant bishop of Durham- important people supporting the rebellion (R)
N + W planned to marry Mary Queen of Scots to Norfolk thus forcing Elizabeth
to name Mary as heir. – Mary was catholic. (O)
Religion could have been a cloak for political goals to get more support. More
rebels (M)


Durham Cathedral captured by rebels, carrying a banner of the
5 wounds of Christ and destroyed English bibles. (V) (A)
78 churches saw protestant service book destroyed and mass
restored in 14 churches (E)
Nobel leadership (L)
N + W refused to go to court- strong resistance from nobles (E)
Barnbard castle captured and Hartpool (a port to receive
foreign help) was seized. (A)
2nd rebellion started by lord dacre with 3,000 troops. Battle in
Carlisle (N)
Rebels paid wages to army and even forced conscripts- country
was economically unstable, people would have looked for any
available income. Meaning more rebels. (N)

700 planned executions- 450 carried out. This shows that
Elizabeth was worried about martyrs. (E)
VLEANDDEM

















Norfolk told N + W not to rebel- Important figure (P)
Religion could have been a cloak for political goals to get more
support.- (M)
People were not passionate about religion as they went through so
many changes. (R)
2nd rebellion started by lord dacre with 3,000 troops. Battle in Carlisle – low compared to
ketts rebellion with 16,000 (N)
Norfolk begged for Elizabeth’s mercy and was sent to tower briefly- showing he was not
dedicated to his cause and that Elizabeth has power. (E)
Rebels paid wages to army and even forced conscripts- They didn’t have strong beliefs in
the rebellion (N)
N + W were not known outside their local area- hard to gain support. (A)
N + W lacked leadership qualities- they were pushed into the rebellion buy their wives
and had no plan.- unorganised (L)
Lack of support- Catholics were hardly executed giving to reason to join. (N)
The plan to release Mary was abandoned (E)
No foreign help arrived- Philip II did not show any enthusiasm for putting Mary on the
throne because of her connections with France. (E) (N)
Earls disbanded their forces on 16/12 (L)
2nd rebellion ended with rebels fleeing to Scotland. (E)
Pope did not issue excommunication until after the rebellion was finished meaning it
was too late for Catholics to support the rebellion and depose their queen. (E)
Earls turned back upon hearing of opposition- showing weakness. (L) (M)
Poorly planned, support limited geographically. (A)
700 planned executions- 450 carried out. This shows that Elizabeth was in control and
wasn’t threatened (E)
Government always seemed in control- had plans to move Mary south to Coventry if
necessary. (M)
Many of Elizabeth’s men held their areas and helped contain the rising (Foster held
Berwick) (M) (A)
New militia system helped gather force easily- 10,000 outnumbering rebels (6,000) (N)
Conclusion
• Judgement: The Northern Rebellion was
mildly dangerous.
• Main reason: An Aim was to overthrow the
Queen however lacked leadership skills and
support.
• Depends on: Who it was dangerous towards (
Elizabeth- overthrow) (Government in
general- rebels did not want to change govt.)
(Church- more Catholicism)
Historiography of the Northern
Rebellion
Northern Rebellion
Dangerous
Not Dangerous
“The strength of the rebel army lay in their
horsemen”. – Fletcher
“men who had been planning
rebellion for weeks, even months,
were forced into an unplanned
rising.” – Haigh
“she (Elizabeth) forced the Earls to choose
between flight and rebellion, when rebellion
was still a realistic option.” – Haigh
“major threat to Elizabeth’s regime…
Elizabeth had been very lucky” – Haigh
Elizabeth's foreign policy – Interventionists vs.
Neutralists – Historiography.
- Interventionists believe Elizabeth should get involved against Spain in
the Netherlands, many of her councillors were pushing her into this route.
-Neutralists believe Elizabeth should stay neutral to prevent any type of
war.
-John Guy believes that Elizabeth’s approach was a good one and that her
cautious policies were good.
- Wilson feels that if Elizabeth intervened and fully supported the Dutch
revels, the Spanish could have been removed.
Reasons why Elizabeth was reluctant to intervene in
the Netherlands (Neutralists)
-The costs would be great
-It could provoke Spain into an invasion of England
-The Dutch rebels didn’t necessarily need English help. The French were
also helping them.
-Intervention could lead to greater Spanish involvement in the Neths.
-Rebels didn’t need a new leader (Elizabeth)
-The rebels’ Calvinist views did not sit well with Elizabeth’s moderate
Protestantism.
-Negotiation would be a more peaceful, successful and cheaper option
-Elizabeth personally wanted peace and not war – preferred moderate
Spanish rule to alternate rule in the Netherlands
Main reasons her councillors wanted to
intervene (Interventionists)
-It could gain Protestant support within Europe
-If rebels fail, and Spanish gain complete control, they could have launched a
more effective invasion upon England
-Spanish were making little progress in the Netherlands – It was a golden
opportunity to defeat Spanish forces in the Netherlands
-Elizabeth could be Protestant leader among Europe, along with allies
What were Elizabeth's main aims in Foreign
Policy?
- A) Keeping the Netherlands free from French influence
-B) Keeping the Netherlands free from complete Spanish
control, but not ousting the Spanish
-C) Keeping the France and Spain and loggerheads and
maintaining balance of power
-D) Avoiding war and concentrating on domestic policies
-E) Not spending too much money
-F) Economic interests and trade.
Why did the Anglo-Spanish alliance
weaken at the start of Liz’s reign?
-Religious differences- Catholic Philip, Protestant Elizabeth. Philip had helped
Catholic missionaries in England.
-The Netherlands situation- If Spain gained full control over the Netherlands, this
could threaten England both strategically and economically. 75% of English trade
went through the Netherlands, and if Spain got full control they could launch a more
direct attack on England (closer than Spain to England, with deep water ports – e.g.
Flushing).
-England didn’t fear the French- France was at civil war (1562). England didn’t
necessarily need the Spanish for an ally against them at this time.
-Decline in trade with the Netherlands (from 1560’s)- Elizabeth wasn’t so
dependent on Netherlands trade as previous monarchs- used Baltic lands for trade.
-Clash over trade with Spanish America- Spain tried to stop English merchants
trading with American colonies. The English still did so as Spain lacked the
necessary navy to stop them.
Why did Anglo-Spanish relations worsen from
1558-72?
-
Elizabeth refused to marry Philip.
Elizabeth aided Protestant rebels in Scotland (1560) and
France (1562) – Philip saw himself as the ‘Sword of the
Pope’ within Europe.
Margaret (Regent in Neths) suspended trade with England
in 1563.
Trade between Neths and England resumed in 1565.
Dr. John Man, English ambassador to Spain, was
expelled.
1568. English merchant goods confiscated in Neths.
Activities of Drake and Hawkins
Why did Anglo-Spanish relations worsen
from 1558-72?
•
•
•
•
-Elizabeth allowed Sea Beggars (Dutch Protestants) to shelter in England
(1567) and launch attacks on Spanish ships.
-Elizabeth seized bullion (gold) from Spanish ships sheltering in English
ports (1568).
- 1568. Alva defeated Dutch rebels. This worried Elizabeth.
-1568. The Spanish attacked Hawkins’ fleet at San Juan de Ulua.
• -Spanish sent financial assistance to Northern rebels in 1569.
• -Elizabeth began allying with France. Negotiations of a marriage
between her and the Duke of Anjou (1570-1571).
• -Spanish supported Ridolfi plot in 1571.
• -Treaty of Blois between England and France(1572) – the maintenance
of this good relationship worried Philip.
•
a)
b)
c)
ACTIVITY – Analyse according to;
Aim (A,B,C etc.)
Cause of tension (P,R,E,France,Strategic,others)
Blame for tension (England, Spain, Both)
1572-84. Period of détente?
• 1572 – Sea Beggars expelled from English ports.
• 1573 – Convention of Nymegen. Trade restored between
England & Neths.
• 1573 –Liz allowed English privateers to close Channel to
Spanish ships
• 1574 – Treaty of Bristol. Liz banished English rebels from
Neths. Gold bullion dispute = settled. She withdrew her
support of English pirates in the Caribbean.
• 1576 – Spanish Fury (Spanish completely take over
Antwerp. Liz lent Dutch Estates general (parliament)
£100,000.
• 1577 – 1000s of English volunteers support Dutch rebels
in Neths.
• Activity. Indicate whether aggression or détente. What do
you notice?
1572-84. Period of détente?
• 1579 – Spanish Duke of Parma doing well in Neths.
• 1580 – P2 gains Portugal. Increased Navy.
• 1580 – Liz gives £100,000 to Duke of Alencon (French) to
revive his campaing in the Neths.
• 1583 – Alencon withdraws from Neths. Parma reconquers
large areas.
• 1583 – P2 orders construction of large navy
• 1584 – Spanish involvement in Throckmorton plot. De
Mendoza (Sp.Amb. = expelled)
• William of Orange = assassinated.
• Catholic League formed between French Catholics and
Spain to stop the Protestant Henry of Navarre taking on the
French crown (previous heir, Alencon, is now dead). The
League sign the Treaty of Joinville with P2.
• Activity. Explain why war started in 1585. Relative
importance of reasons?
The war itself
•
There was no formal declaration of war, but both parties considered
a state of war to exist. In 1585, Liz made a treaty with the Dutch
(Nonsuch). England was to temporarily occupy the ports of Brill
and Flushing and was to send an army of 7,000 under the command
of the Earl of Leicester. Drake was also sent to the West Indies with
29 ships and 2,000 men. Drake missed Spanish treasure ships.
(a)
Instead he sacked Santo Domingo and Cartagena (losing £5000),
which forced P2 to divert money from the Neths campaign to restore
them.
(b) Drake ‘singes the King of Spain’s beard’, sinking 30 ships at Cadiz,
delaying preparations for the Armada.
(c) After this, Drake captured the San Felipe, returning with £140,000.
(d) In the Neths, Leicester angered the Queen by accepting the title of
Governor General without Liz’s permission.
(e) Leicester also quarrelled with the Dutch and got involved in their
political affairs
(f) He generally wasted money (£126,000) and supplies without
success.
(g) Leicester was inexperienced as a soldier. Liz overlooked the more
experienced Sir William Pelham as he owed her money.
Activity: How well conducted was the War vs. Spain?
Reasons Elizabeth has been
criticised about the war with
Spain
Elizabeth wasn’t ambitious enough- She had no desire to destroy the
Spanish power in Europe. She was too cautious with her spending and
insisted her allies should have paid more.
Her gender was a disadvantage- she had no military experience as
previous male monarchs would have had. Men would listen to her in
politics because of her attractiveness, but needed quick decisive actions in
time of war.
Incapable of military decisions- she had limited control over her
commanders. Decisions during war could be confused and erratic.
Elizabeth didn’t support her generals- She was unwilling to spend
excess men and money. Leicester never had enough men, had insufficient
wages, supplies, and equipment leading to many desertions.
Why did the Armada fail?
Leadership
Planning of the invasion- Walsingham’s English spy system knew about Spanish
invasion.
Elizabeth’s heroism and coolness- she was great at rallying her troops into fighting
a well fought and successful war. Speech at Tilbury Docks.
Duke of Medina- replaced Santa Cruz (died in 1588). Medina as an incompetent
sailor.
Drake ‘singes the King of Spain’s beard’, sinking 30 ships at Cadiz, delaying
preparations for the Armada.
Resources
Spanish guns- Short of heavy long range guns/ artillery, couldn’t effectively destroy
English ships.
Shortage of round shot- Spanish didn’t have much artillery and ineffective in
attacks.
English ships- 21 Queen’s ships (200 tons) and well prepared to defend with good
resources. Also faster, more equipped and better built. Fire ships.
Events
Barrel staves- Drake was able to capture Portuguese ships containing
ivory, silks and spices, claiming he ‘singed the King of Spain's beard’.
Spain were therefore losing money which they needed to prepare for
defence/ attacks.
Return Journey- The Spanish couldn’t use the Dutch ports (Flushing) to
launch a successful attack on England. They had to restock on resources in
Spain, and attempted to travel around Scotland to attack. The weather
destroyed around 30 Spanish ships.
Flushing- England controlled the deep water ports in the Netherlands,
Spain needed them to launch a successful attack on England.
Dutch blockade- England controlled ports, forced Spain to restock all the
way back in Spain, and also travel around Scotland to launch an attack.
Explain why M,Q of S caused
Elizabeth so much trouble
Fill in essay plan;
Intro;
One reason is…….
Other reasons include……
Main 1; Did she really cause so much
trouble?
• Disowned
• Lack of support from P2. E.g. Why?
• Few revolts vs. Liz in 19 years’ captivity.
• Revolts were not that dangerous.
• Main 2; The reasons;
• A) Her background. Claim to throne, desire for
throne, Connections with France. Catholics’ view
of Liz. Excommunication.
• B) Mary’s arrival in England. Dilemma (explain
problems of each course of action). Send to
France/Scotland. Keep her in England.
• C) Problems of keeping her in England. Explain
the danger of Revolt of Northern Earls (’69),
Ridolfi Plot (’71) & Throckmorton plot (’84)
• D) Mary’s execution. Explain Elizabeth’s
dilemma in terms of possible reaction from
Scotland/France
• Conclusion; Main reason why M,Q of S
caused trouble was…………………….
This is because………………..
Elizabeth may have worsened the situation
by………….
Yet, never so much trouble because…..
How successful was Elizabeth in handling the
problems posed for her by M,Q of S?
• Intro; Fact suggesting she was successful
Fact suggesting she wasn’t
Outline
Depends on question….
First paragraph
• Briefly outline the problems posed by M,Q
of S
• Claim to throne, desire for throne,
Connections with France. Catholics’ view
of Liz. Excommunication.
Elizabeth’s policy could have been
more successful
• York Conference could have dealt with
Mary once and for all. Explain advantages
of sending her to Scotland/France or her
early execution. Caskett letters could have
been produced.
• Keeping her in England was a mistake.
Explain how Mary was used as a figurehead
for plots and how dangerous they were;
• Revolt of Northern Earls (’69)
• Ridolfi (’71)
• Throckmorton (’84)
Elizabeth handled the situation with
political skill
• There was no right solution. Captivity in
England was the least of all evils;
• A) Indecision at York conference was a
clever ploy. Explain.
• B) Problems with alternatives. Sending to
Scotland/France. Execution.
• C) She served a purpose in England. Explain.
• It could be argued that Elizabeth handled
the execution really well;
• A) Timing. P2.
• B) Babington Plot
• C) Orders for execution
• D) No reprisals from France/Scotland. The
gamble paid off.
The Conclusion
• Judgement;
• Main reason;
• Depends on;
• (You may want to use the following phrases;) ‘few
alternatives’, ‘too humane’, ‘problem was solved – eventually’, ‘lucky
over execution’, ‘Mary made it easier’, problems weren’t so severe’
THE END
GOOD LUCK!!!!