Edward VI - Government Flashcards
(20 cards)
How did Somerset’s government come about?
1546 - reformists rewrote Henry’s will keeping Edward as heir but strengthening power of regency Council to rule on his behalf
What happened on January 31st 1547?
Edward Seymour appointed lord protector, most powerful member of Regency Council
What did Somerset do to Regency Council?
Overthrew them, gave himself greater control, rewarded supporters with land and promotions, angered many councillors like earl of Southampton
Where did privy council meet?
Somerset House, household servants nicknamed “new council”
What happened following a coup against Somerset?
Northumberlans to power in 1549, Warwick presided as Lord President of Council
When did Somerset attempt to regain power and what was the consequence?
1551-2 - execution
What did Northumberland do for the privy council?
Extended use and important of council, revival of government by council
What happened with parliament?
Frequent parliament continued, 2 parliaments in six years
How was parliament used?
To pass religious laws, not used to destroy protectorate or pass Act of Succession
Privy Council Members?
6 principal gentleman and 26 ordinary gentlemen
Sir Michael Stanhope - Chief Gentleman
Regional government?
1549 - war with France unpopular so hostility toward high taxation, privy councillors advocated peace to restore financial stability
Local government?
Improved communication between centre and shires under Northumberland
Lord Lieutenants appointed temporarily during 1549
Every county to report back to Council
Foreign policy under Somerset - Positives
Control over Anglo - Saxon border following Battle of Pinkie
Foreign policy under Somerset - negatives
20,000 soldiers tried to occupy Scotland but failed due to not enough numbers
600,000 pounds spent on unsuccessful policy
Foreign policy under Northumberland - positives
Removal of troops from Scotland to tackle internal English problems
Treaty of Boulogne - 1550
How much did Treaty of France pay to England?
133,333 pounds
Foreign policy under Northumberland - Negatives
Treaty of Boulogne - English gave up Boulogne
Anglo - Scottish border returned to how it was before Henry VIII’s victories
Why was Somerset not good?
No clear reforms, continuation of war, some investigation into enclosures but no massive change
Why was Northumberland not good?
Economic grievances, questionable morals
Why was Northumberland better than Somerset?
Ended war, prioritised peace, tried to strengthen currency
