Government

Question 1

Describe the role of the Privy Council in the Elizabethan monarchy.

Answer 1

The Privy Council was a group of advisors chosen by Elizabeth I, consisting of a small number of men who provided counsel to the monarch. They met regularly, especially during crises, and while Elizabeth was not bound to accept their advice, she rarely disregarded it.

Question 2

Explain how Elizabeth I selected her councillors.

Answer 2

Elizabeth I selected her councillors from a small group of men, summoning about a dozen at any one time. She made her choices based on loyalty and suitability, often including those who had remained loyal during her times of trial.

Question 3

How did the frequency of Privy Council meetings change during Elizabeth’s reign?

Answer 3

The Privy Council met regularly, initially twice a week, but increased to daily meetings during times of difficulty or crisis, such as the French intervention in Scotland in 1559 and the arrival of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1568

Question 4

Define the role of the Lord Lieutenant in local government during Elizabeth’s reign.

Answer 4

The Lord Lieutenant was the head of each county, typically a member of the nobility, responsible for military duties and the supervision of the militia, with real work often carried out by Deputy Lieutenants.

Question 5

Discuss the responsibilities of Justices of the Peace (JPs) in Elizabethan England.

Answer 5

Justices of the Peace (JPs) were responsible for maintaining order, presiding over Quarter Sessions, and handling legal affairs. Their duties expanded to include the Poor Law and Highways, and they were often the first point of contact for local information needed by Councillors.

Question 6

Explain the significance of the Council of Wales and the Council of the North.

Answer 6

The Council of Wales and the Council of the North were established to extend royal authority to outlying areas of England, ensuring governance and order in regions far from the central power of the monarchy.

Question 7

Describe the composition of Elizabeth I’s Council in 1558.

Answer 7

In 1558, Elizabeth I, with the help of Cecil, chose her Council, which included three main groups: members of the nobility, experienced individuals from previous reigns, and new members who had shown loyalty during her trials.

Question 8

How did the role of JPs evolve during Elizabeth I’s reign?

Answer 8

The role of Justices of the Peace (JPs) evolved to include increased responsibilities, such as managing the Poor Law and Highways, and their workload grew significantly, leading to complaints about being over-burdened by the end of Elizabeth’s reign.

Question 9

Discuss the influence of courtiers on Elizabeth I’s decision-making.

Answer 9

Courtiers had the advantage of daily access to Elizabeth I, allowing them to influence her decisions. However, the queen maintained ultimate responsibility for her choices.

Question 10

Explain the relationship between JPs and local law enforcement.

Answer 10

Justices of the Peace (JPs) relied on local figures such as Parish Constables and Deputy Constables for law enforcement, but these individuals often lacked effectiveness and depended on the cooperation of local magnates.

Question 11

Describe the composition of the Council in 1562.

Answer 11

In 1562, both Dudley and Thomas Howard, Duke of Norfolk, were made members of the Council, indicating Elizabeth I’s preference for a balance of opinion between Protestant and Catholic views.

Question 12

Explain the significance of the Council’s membership changes by 1586.

Answer 12

By 1586, the Council’s membership had shifted to include only nobles who were close allies of the queen, with the Earl of Derby remaining due to his territorial power.

Question 13

How did the inter-relatedness of Council members affect its dynamics?

Answer 13

The inter-relatedness of Council members, with many being brothers or brothers-in-law, made the membership quite narrow and less representative, which may have contributed to rising criticism of the Council towards the end of Elizabeth I’s reign.

Question 14

What was the main topic of discussion in the Council during 1559-60?

Answer 14

The main topic of discussion in the Council during 1559-60 was the question of intervention in Scotland, with Cecil advocating for action against the French presence north of the border; had to win over others

Question 15

Do you know what happened during the Council meeting in 1562 regarding the queen’s illness?

Answer 15

In 1562, the Council met in emergency due to the queen’s illness from smallpox to discuss the matter of succession, but they failed to reach a decision as they were divided between two main claimants.

Question 16

Explain the Council’s stance on Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1568.

Answer 16

In 1568, when Mary, Queen of Scots, arrived in England, the Council was adamant that Elizabeth I would not restore her to the Scottish throne or allow her to leave England, with Elizabeth attending some meetings to assert her views.

Question 17

How did the Council respond to the Massacre of St Bartholomew in 1572?

Answer 17

After the Massacre of St Bartholomew in 1572, the Council met in emergency; for Cecil, it was confirmation of his belief in a Catholic plot against Protestantism, resulting in increased guards around Mary, Queen of Scots, and provisions to defend the south coast.

Question 18

What was the outcome of the marriage debate in 1579?

Answer 18

In 1579, during the debate about a potential marriage to the Duke of Alencon, seven out of twelve councillors opposed the match, and despite attempts by Walsingham and Leicester to influence Elizabeth through public protests, she ultimately pulled out of negotiations.

Question 19

Define the Bond of Association created by the Council in 1584.

Answer 19

The Bond of Association, created by the Council in 1584, was a response to the assassination of Dutch leader William of Orange, aiming to protect the queen by ensuring that all leading advisors signed it to prevent further attempts on her life.

Question 20

How did the Council’s approach to aiding Dutch rebels evolve from 1576 onwards?

Answer 20

From 1576 onwards, the question of aid to Dutch rebels was discussed, initially proposed by Leicester and supported by Walsingham and Knollys, with Elizabeth attempting to avoid a rift with the Council by using another tactic.

Question 21

What was the nature of Elizabeth I’s relationship with Cecil?

Answer 21

Elizabeth I’s partnership with Cecil lasted around 40 years and was only broken by Cecil’s death in 1598.

Question 22

How did the Council’s unity change in the 1570s?

Answer 22

In the 1570s, the Council became largely unified, with most disagreements occurring between the councillors and the queen herself.

Question 23

Describe the Council’s reaction to the assassination of William of Orange.

Answer 23

The Council reacted sharply to the assassination of William of Orange in 1584, fearing for the queen’s safety, which led to the creation of the Bond of Association.

Question 24

Explain the role of the Council in Elizabeth I’s decision-making process.

Answer 24

The Council played a crucial role in Elizabeth I’s decision-making process, as she often relied on their support and presence during important meetings, indicating their influence on her policies.

Question 25

Describe the main rivals to Cecil during the reign.

Answer 25

The main rivals to Cecil were Leicester and Walsingham, who played significant roles in the government; Cecil’s position became virtually invulnerable, and he was able to ensure that his son succeeded him, but Leicester and Walsingham had more important roles.

Question 26

Explain why Cecil was chosen as Elizabeth I's chief minister.

Answer 26

Cecil was chosen as Elizabeth I's chief minister due to his education, legal training, practical experience, trustworthiness, and shared cautious nature with the queen.

Question 27

How did Cecil's background contribute to his role in Elizabeth I's government?

Answer 27

Cecil's background included education at Stamford Grammar School and St John's College Cambridge, legal training at Gray's Inn, and experience as an MP from 1547 and Privy Councillor, which made him well-suited for his role.

Question 28

Define the relationship between Elizabeth I and Cecil.

Answer 28

Elizabeth I and Cecil had a close relationship characterized by mutual trust, shared values, and personal connections, including her visiting him during his illness.

Question 29

What was Cecil's influence on Elizabeth I's government?

Answer 29

Cecil had a significant influence on Elizabeth I's government, believing in the need for a marriage and undisputed successor to counter Catholic threats, and he was involved in key negotiations and propaganda efforts.

Question 30

How did Cecil respond to threats against Elizabeth I's reign?

Answer 30

Cecil responded to threats against Elizabeth I's reign by negotiating treaties, developing propaganda, and advocating for strong measures against perceived conspiracies.

Question 31

Explain the significance of factions in Elizabeth I's court.

Answer 31

Factions in Elizabeth I's court arose from patronage and were significant as they could influence government decisions, create rivalries, and potentially lead to rebellion if one faction was favored over another.

Question 32

Describe the main factions during the early part of Elizabeth I's reign.

Answer 32

The main factions during the early part of Elizabeth I's reign were centered around Cecil and Dudley, with Cecil being serious-minded and cautious, while Dudley was seen as attractive but lightweight.

Question 33

How did Cecil and Dudley differ in their approach to governance?

Answer 33

Cecil was cautious and mindful of financial constraints, while Dudley favored a bolder approach to governance.

Question 34

What role did patronage play in the formation of factions at Elizabeth I's court?

Answer 34

Patronage played a crucial role in the formation of factions at Elizabeth I's court, as respected patrons could secure gains for their clients, leading to the establishment of factions based on personal connections and common causes.

Question 35

Explain the impact of Cecil's writings on English policy.

Answer 35

Cecil's writings, such as 'The Execution of Justice in England' in 1584, defended English policy and justified actions taken against Roman Catholics, contributing to the propaganda efforts of Elizabeth I's government.

Question 36

What was the outcome of the 1569 plot against Cecil?

Answer 36

Cecil survived the 1569 plot by some nobles to arrest or imprison him, after which his dominance in the government was not seriously challenged.

Question 37

How did Elizabeth I support Cecil during personal tragedies?

Answer 37

Elizabeth I supported Cecil during his personal tragedies, such as the deaths of his daughter and wife in the 1580s, by ordering him back to work with a sense of rough kindness.

Question 38

Describe the nature of factionalism in localities during Elizabeth I's reign.

Answer 38

Factionalism in localities, particularly in places like Norfolk, could be especially dangerous, as it mirrored the court's factional struggles and could lead to local unrest.

Question 39

Describe Dudley's stance on intervention in European wars.

Answer 39

Dudley wanted intervention in wars in Europe.

Question 40

Explain Cecil's approach to maintaining peace during Elizabeth's reign.

Answer 40

Cecil wanted to maintain peace as long as possible, considering the expenses and state of defenses.

Question 41

How did Cecil influence Elizabeth's policies?

Answer 41

Cecil was adept at selecting information to present to Elizabeth, leading her to favor his policies, and used English ambassadors abroad to urge her towards specific courses of action.

Question 42

What event in 1576 involved Leicester and the Dutch?

Answer 42

In 1576, Leicester persuaded the Dutch to write to Elizabeth, asking her to send an army to the Netherlands under his command, potentially being influenced by Cecil's methods.

Question 43

Define the conflict between Leicester and the Howard alliance from 1565-66.

Answer 43

The conflict between Leicester and the Howard alliance, which included Norfolk and Sussex, was marked by accusations of misconduct by Leicester to Sussex, and that Leicester had murdered Amy Robsart, creating a dangerous factional rivalry.

Question 44

How did Elizabeth intervene in the conflict between Leicester and Sussex?

Answer 44

As Elizabeth was close to Leicester, she was in danger of being drawn in; Elizabeth ended the tension by making it clear she wouldn’t marry Leicester, which led him to align with Norfolk's views.

Question 45

What does the execution of the Duke of Norfolk and the Earl of Essex suggest about factional rivalry during Elizabeth's reign?

Answer 45

The executions indicate that factional rivalry could be deadly, as both were executed for treason - Norfolk in 1572, and Essex in 1601.

Question 46

Explain the impact of Leicester's behavior on his popularity.

Answer 46

Leicester's readiness to take offense made rivalries worse and him unpopular, as reflected in the negative portrayal in the tract 'Leicester’s Commonwealth', which depicted him as despising nobility of court and as compulsive adulterer.

Question 47

Describe Leicester's relationship with Christopher Hatton.

Answer 47

Leicester was resentful of Christopher Hatton's rise, viewing him as a rival due to Hatton's impressive skills and favor with Elizabeth.

Question 48

How did Elizabeth exploit her gender as a ruler?

Answer 48

Elizabeth successfully exploited her gender by navigating the court's dynamics, despite the hostility towards female rulers and the belief that women had no role in government.

Question 49

What theological objections did radical Protestants have against female rulers?

Answer 49

Radical Protestants believed that a female monarch was contrary to nature and displeasing to God, as articulated in John Knox’s 'The First Blast of the Trumpet against the Monstrous Regiment of Women'; E was outraged but had no doubt that she was divinely chosen.

Question 50

How did Elizabeth view the women in her Privy Chamber?

Answer 50

Elizabeth saw the women in her Privy Chamber as friends and loyal supporters, despite their potential to be sources of information for councillors and foreign ambassadors.

Question 51

What was the nature of the court during Elizabeth's reign compared to Henry VIII's time?

Answer 51

The court during Elizabeth's reign, up to 1589, was a place of gossip and sexual indiscretions but lacked the menace that characterized the Henrician times.

Question 52

Discuss the speculation surrounding Elizabeth's virginity.

Answer 52

Speculation over Elizabeth's virginity suggested that her personal piety and self-respect would not allow her to engage in sexual relationships; bedchamber was shared with one of her ladies and her behaviour was closely scrutinised.

Question 53

How did Elizabeth react to the marriage of Mary Shelton?

Answer 53

Elizabeth could be fiercely jealous of other people’s happy relationships; in 1574 one of ladies of her Privy Chamber, Mary Shelton, secretly married – dealt what was described as evil words.

Question 54

What was Elizabeth's response to Leicester's marriage to Lettice Knollys in 1578?

Answer 54

Elizabeth saw Leicester's marriage to Lettice Knollys as a betrayal and ordered him to the Tower until she was persuaded that this action would not enhance her dignity.

Question 55

Describe how Elizabeth I used her gender to influence men at court.

Answer 55

Elizabeth I bound men to her through her gender, using flattery and charm to gain their loyalty and support, as seen with figures like Hatton who danced into her favor, was promoted to Captain of her Gentlemen Pensioners and remained single for her sake.

Question 56

Explain the role of flattery in Elizabeth I's court.

Answer 56

Flattery played a significant role in Elizabeth I's court, as she welcomed praise from men to enhance her reputation, exemplified by Edmund Spenser's glorification of her as a virtuous and beautiful lady, and portrayal of M, QoS, as the evil Duessa.

Question 57

How did Elizabeth I gather political information at court?

Answer 57

Elizabeth I used her ladies-in-waiting to gather political gossip and information, such as learning about Norfolk's plan to marry Mary, Queen of Scots in 1569; others used the women to influence E and when it seemed she might marry Alencon, they were encouraged by Leicester to weep and wail to put her off idea.

Question 58

Define the significance of Accession Day celebrations during Elizabeth I's reign.

Answer 58

From the 1570s, Accession Day celebrations marked by extravagant festivities and jousting provided knights an opportunity to demonstrate their loyalty to Elizabeth I.

Question 59

Describe Elizabeth I's relationship with Alencon and how she exploited her gender.

Answer 59

Exploited her gender in her relationship with Alencon; entertained Jean de Simier, his envoy, and gave him the nickname ‘monkey’; Leicester and Hatton, usually rivals, came together in loathing him. E called Alencon her ‘frog’, Leicester her ‘eyes, and Hatton her ‘lids’.

Question 60

Explain the dynamics between Elizabeth I and Parliament.

Answer 60

The relationship between Elizabeth I and Parliament was complex, with some viewing it as conflictual due to the influence of independent MPs, while others saw it as cooperative with shared aims despite disagreements.

Question 61

How often did Parliament meet during Elizabeth I's reign?

Answer 61

Parliament met 13 times during Elizabeth I's reign, with each session averaging about 3 months.

Question 62

Describe the attendance trends in the House of Commons during Elizabeth I's reign.

Answer 62

Attendance in the House of Commons varied, with just over half present in 1559, between 31% and 64% in 1563, and poor attendance by 1571 led to fines for non-attendance, but this didn't work.

Question 63

What was the impact of non-attendance in the House of Commons?

Answer 63

Non-attendance could benefit the crown by reducing the number of MPs to argue against, but it also meant that those who did attend were serious and gained experience in opposition.

Question 64

How did Elizabeth I respond to attempts at religious reform in Parliament?

Answer 64

Elizabeth I resisted attempts to revise the Church Settlement without her authority, suspending Strickland in 1571 for making radical proposals, which ultimately led to opposition against her actions and so she never again suspended an MP for something he had said or done within HoC.

Question 65

What was the attendance like in the House of Lords compared to the House of Commons?

Answer 65

Attendance in the House of Lords was generally better, with up to two-thirds of members attending compared to the lower attendance rates in the House of Commons.

Question 66

Explain the significance of the 1572 Parliament meeting.

Answer 66

The 1572 Parliament was notable as it was the only one to sit in June, used by the Council to pressure Elizabeth I into executing Norfolk.

Question 67

Describe the events leading to the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots.

Answer 67

In 1586, Mary was found guilty of treason after a series of plots were discovered. Parliament debated the issue, and Cecil persuaded Elizabeth I to share the responsibility for the execution with parliament. Following speeches condemning Mary, both Houses presented a petition to Elizabeth to carry out the legal penalty for treason; Cecil prepared execution warrant, and once E signed it, Council took responsibility of sending it off.

Question 68

Explain the role of parliament in the execution of Norfolk.

Answer 68

In 1572, parliament attempted to execute Norfolk, who had been found guilty of treason. A sympathetic Speaker was elected, and MPs and Lords used speeches and debates to pressure Elizabeth I. Cecil convinced her to agree to Norfolk's execution while preserving Mary, Queen of Scots' life.

Question 69

How did Elizabeth I manage parliament's discussions on sensitive topics?

Answer 69

Elizabeth I forbade discussion on certain topics, arguing that matters of state required her permission. She allowed debates on commonweal issues but maintained control over discussions related to her marriage, succession, and foreign policy.

Question 70

Define the significance of Peter Wentworth's actions in parliament.

Answer 70

Peter Wentworth persistently challenged Elizabeth I's restrictions on parliamentary discussions from 1566 to 1587, advocating for the right to debate all topics. His actions led to his commitment to the Tower, highlighting tensions between MPs and the queen.

Question 71

What factors contributed to Elizabeth I's control over parliament?

Answer 71

Elizabeth I had the prerogative to call and dissolve parliaments, often doing so rarely. The Speaker was a royal nominee, and the Council largely set the agenda, with many Councillors being MPs who represented the queen's views. Additionally, MPs were often more concerned with local matters than national issues.

Question 72

Discuss the impact of the Subsidy Bill on Elizabeth I's relationship with parliament.

Answer 72

The Subsidy Bill was crucial for Elizabeth I as it required parliamentary consent for raising taxes. Once it was passed, she saw little reason to prolong the session, indicating her reliance on parliament for financial support.

Question 73

How did Elizabeth I respond to petitions presented by parliament?

Answer 73

Elizabeth I often sent her responses to petitions through Cecil, toning down her messages to maintain amicable relations with parliament. She sometimes made concessions in difficult situations, such as in 1566 her refusal to allow discussion about succession led to protests about freedom of speech and so E relented; this concession only lasted for one session; E did not renounce her prerogative and made that clear in her closing speech.

Question 74

Explain the significance of freedom of speech issues raised by MPs.

Answer 74

Some MPs were unhappy with Elizabeth I's restrictions on discussing certain topics, leading to challenges against her authority. This issue highlighted the struggle for parliamentary freedom and the desire for MPs to engage in open debate on all matters.

Question 75

Describe Elizabeth I's communication style in parliament.

Answer 75

Elizabeth I was adept at complex written communication, often redrafting her speeches to ensure clarity. However, this sometimes resulted in her meaning being obscure. She occasionally addressed parliament directly or had the Lord Keeper read her messages.

Question 76

What was the outcome of the debates regarding Mary, Queen of Scots in parliament?

Answer 76

The outcome was that after extensive debates and speeches condemning Mary as an enemy of England, parliament successfully petitioned Elizabeth I to carry out the execution for treason, leading to her execution.

Question 77

Explain E's actions regarding the dissolution of parliament in 1566.

Answer 77

E dissolved parliament earlier than expected, preventing discussions on subjects she disliked.

Question 78

How did E use her veto power in relation to church-related bills?

Answer 78

In 1571, E vetoed a bill that would impose heavy fines on those refusing communion in the Church of England, fearing it would alienate papists preferred that they continued attending church.

Question 79

What was E's reasoning for vetoing the bill regarding Mary, Queen of Scots in 1572?

Answer 79

E vetoed the bill declaring Mary could never be queen of England because some details were not to her liking, despite both Houses passing it.

Question 80

Describe E's actions in the 1584-5 parliament regarding church reform bills.

Answer 80

E vetoed several bills aimed at church reform or used the House of Lords to defeat them.

Question 81

Explain the pressures E faced regarding marriage and succession.

Answer 81

E faced pressure to provide an heir, as she could have been the last of the Tudors if she did not marry, and the atmosphere of unease increased when she nearly died from smallpox in 1562.

Question 82

How did the birth of James to Mary, Queen of Scots affect E's succession plans?

Answer 82

The birth of James eased some pressure on E, as she recognised that he would her potential successor and wrote to him regularly with advice; never explicitly said he was her heir.

Question 83

What were the beliefs about the necessity of marriage for a queen?

Answer 83

It wa believed that a queen needed a king to support and advise her.

Question 84

Summarize Cecil's views on E's reluctance to marry.

Answer 84

Cecil expressed that E's delays in marrying produced inconvenience and dangers for the crown, such as in 1573.

Question 85

Why was Dudley considered an unsuitable match for E?

Answer 85

Dudley had a poor family reputation, was generally unpopular in court, and was suspected of having murdered his wife.

Question 86

What were E's concerns regarding Philip II as a suitor?

Answer 86

E declined Philip II's offer because she witnessed the unhappiness of Mary I and knew how unpopular a foreign king could be; devout Catholic, while she was Protestant; declined offer as she didn't recognise authority of pope.

Question 87

Describe E's interactions with Archduke Charles as a potential suitor.

Answer 87

E showed some interest in Archduke Charles but ultimately declined, stating she did not intend to marry.

Question 88

What were the reasons for E's reluctance to marry Charles IX?

Answer 88

E's reluctance was based on religious grounds, as suggested by Leicester in 1565.

Question 89

Explain the public sentiment towards E's potential marriage to Francis, Duke of Alencon.

Answer 89

There was serious opposition from the public and a divided Privy Council, with E worried about the risks of childbirth.

Question 90

What psychological factors contributed to E's unwillingness to marry?

Answer 90

E witnessed the disastrous marriages of her father and possibly experienced trauma from her early life, including the execution of her mother, although only three.

Question 91

Why did E believe no suitor was suitable for marriage?

Answer 91

E thought it was not a good idea to marry another monarch, as shown by Mary I's experience, and most suitors were Catholic, although the marriage treaty of 1554 showed it could work, and was prepared to marry Alencon.

Question 92

How did public opinion influence E's marriage decisions?

Answer 92

Public opinion was xenophobic and desired a Protestant king, which limited her options for marriage.

Question 93

Describe the concerns Elizabeth I had regarding marriage and succession.

Answer 93

Elizabeth I was concerned that naming a successor would endanger her life, as it could lead to plots against her. She faced pressure from parliament and advisors to marry and settle the succession, but she remained hostile to the idea.

Question 94

Explain the public reaction to Elizabeth I's potential marriage to a French suitor.

Answer 94

There was notable opposition to a French match, exemplified by John Stubbs' tract, which criticized the idea. Elizabeth ordered the confiscation and burning of all copies, and Stubbs was imprisoned and punished for his views.

Question 95

How did Elizabeth I's independence influence her decisions regarding marriage?

Answer 95

Elizabeth I valued her independence and wanted to maintain control over her own decisions, which made her reluctant to marry, as she feared it would compromise her authority.

Question 96

Define the impact of Mary, Queen of Scots, on Elizabeth I's foreign affairs.

Answer 96

Mary, Queen of Scots, was seen as a potential heir to the English throne, which made her a focal point in foreign relations. Elizabeth was concerned about Mary's matrimonial alliances and the support she received from France and Spain.

Question 97

Do early parliaments show urgency regarding Elizabeth I's marriage?

Answer 97

Yes, early parliaments expressed concern about the urgency of Elizabeth's need to marry, with petitions made in 1559 and again in 1563 urging her to settle the succession.

Question 98

Explain the consequences of Elizabeth I's anger over the subsidy bill in the House of Commons.

Answer 98

Elizabeth was furious when the subsidy bill included a preamble about her promise to marry and settle succession. This reaction highlighted her resistance to external pressure regarding marriage.

Question 99

Describe the role of Robert Molyneux and Sir Ralph Sadler in Elizabeth I's marriage discussions.

Answer 99

In 1566, Robert Molyneux and Sir Ralph Sadler, clients of Cecil, pressed Elizabeth to promise to marry and name a successor, reflecting the ongoing pressure from her advisors and parliament.

Question 100

How did Elizabeth I respond to the threat posed by Mary, Queen of Scots, and her potential suitors?

Answer 100

Elizabeth was alarmed by Mary's matrimonial projects, particularly when Mary considered suitors like Don Carlos, as these alliances could strengthen Mary's claim to the English throne.

Question 101

Define the relationship between Elizabeth I and Spain during her reign.

Answer 101

Relations with Spain became increasingly uneasy, particularly due to Philip II's support for Mary, Queen of Scots, Spanish involvement in plots against Elizabeth, and the Dutch Revolt

Question 102

Explain the significance of the Duke of Alencon in Elizabeth I's foreign policy.

Answer 102

The Duke of Alencon was used by Elizabeth to counter the threat posed by Mary and Don John of Austria, who planned to reduce Dutch to submission and then rescue and marry Mary, but his support for the Dutch was ineffective, and he died in 1584.

Question 103

Describe the public perception of John Stubbs after his punishment.

Answer 103

John Stubbs was viewed as a true Englishman by the public after his punishment for opposing Elizabeth's potential marriage to a French suitor, indicating public support for his stance.

Question 104

How did Elizabeth I's health influence the urgency for a settled succession?

Answer 104

Elizabeth's bouts of illness heightened the urgency for a settled succession, especially as other claimants like Katherine Grey and Mary, Queen of Scots, had given birth to sons.

Question 105

Explain the implications of Elizabeth I holding Mary, Queen of Scots, from 1568 to 1587.

Answer 105

Elizabeth's decision to hold Mary, Queen of Scots, created a potential threat, as Mary could be used by her supporters to challenge Elizabeth's rule, keeping tensions high in Scotland and England.

Question 106

Describe Elizabeth I's openness to influence from her court members.

Answer 106

Elizabeth was open to influence from members of her court, with an estimated two-thirds of the nobility attending court at some time, along with a fair portion of the gentry.

Question 107

Who advised Elizabeth I in the early years of her reign?

Answer 107

In the early years of her reign, Elizabeth I was advised by Dudley; later, the Earl of Sussex became involved in marriage negotiations from 1564-66, but he only joined the Council after his work in the defeat of the Northern Rebellion.

Question 108

What was Raleigh's role in Elizabeth I's court?

Answer 108

Raleigh was another influential courtier in the latter part of Elizabeth I's reign, but he was never a councillor.

Question 109

What was the role of Justices of the Peace (JPs) in maintaining order?

Answer 109

The real work of maintaining order fell to Justices of the Peace (JPs), who were chosen by the Royal Commission of the Peace and could number between 30 and 60 per county, but the inner core did most of the work.

Question 110

Who were the members of nobility in Elizabeth I's Council and what was their significance?

Answer 110

Members of the nobility were natural advisors for monarchs, including seven peers who served on Mary’s Council. They could ensure loyalty in areas where they owned estates and some were very powerful.

Question 111

What was the role of experienced individuals in Elizabeth I's Council?

Answer 111

Experienced individuals, such as Sir Thomas Cheney and Sir William Petre, had served under Elizabeth's predecessors and their expertise was needed in governance.

Question 112

Who were the new members of Elizabeth I's Council and why were they chosen?

Answer 112

Elizabeth I appointed nine new members, including William Cecil, who had not been councillors previously but seemed suitable. They were men who had remained loyal during her trials and attended Council meetings frequently.

Question 113

How did Elizabeth I manage her advisors despite having many?

Answer 113

Despite having an abundance of advice, Elizabeth I often relied on just a few men. In 1559, the Spanish ambassador noted that she governed the country primarily with Cecil, Dudley, Nicholas Bacon, and Thomas Parry.

Question 114

How did Elizabeth I's close advisors interact with her?

Answer 114

Elizabeth I's close advisors were not yes men and often disagreed with her; she even threw a slipper at Walsingham during a disagreement.

Question 115

What was Cecil's status during Mary's reign?

Answer 115

Cecil was not a Marian exile; he was briefly imprisoned under Mary.

Question 116

What role did Cecil have from 1548 regarding Elizabeth's estates?

Answer 116

From 1548, Cecil was the overseer of Elizabeth’s estates.

Question 117

What practical experience did Cecil have that was beneficial to Elizabeth?

Answer 117

Cecil had practical experience that Elizabeth lacked and was already well known to her, having been at Hatfield before she became queen.

Question 118

Why could Elizabeth trust Cecil?

Answer 118

Elizabeth could trust Cecil because he was hard-working and methodical, as evidenced by his legacy of memoranda.

Question 119

What common traits did Cecil and Elizabeth share?

Answer 119

Cecil and Elizabeth had much in common; both were cautious and conservative, not fond of change, and strong believers in upholding the law.

Question 120

What significant event occurred when Cecil was dying in 1598?

Answer 120

When Cecil was dying in 1598, Elizabeth visited him and fed him with her own hands.

Question 121

What action did Cecil threaten in 1560 regarding Scotland?

Answer 121

In 1560, Cecil threatened to resign unless Elizabeth agreed to help the Lords of the Congregation in Scotland against French invaders.

Question 122

What significant treaty did Cecil personally negotiate?

Answer 122

Cecil personally negotiated the Edinburgh treaty.

Question 123

On average, what percentage of MPs in any parliament had sat in the previous one?

Answer 123

About 40% of MPs in any parliament had sat in the previous one.

Question 124

What did Elizabeth I argue regarding matters of commonweal and state?

Answer 124

Elizabeth I argued that matters of commonweal, such as social and economic measures, and local and personal bills, could be freely debated, but matters of state needed her permission.

Question 125

What was Elizabeth I's belief regarding religion and her prerogative?

Answer 125

Elizabeth I believed that religion was a matter for her bishops and Convocation, while her marriage, succession, and foreign policy were part of her prerogative; MPs wished to be consulted.

Question 126

What was the idea regarding Archduke Charles in 1564?

Answer 126

The idea of Archduke Charles was revived in 1564; Cecil urged marriage as England lacked allies in Europe, and this was also backed by the Duke of Norfolk and the Privy Council.

Question 127

Who was sent to negotiate the marriage with Archduke Charles?

Answer 127

The Earl of Sussex was sent to negotiate, but events in Scotland made Elizabeth feel more secure.