Growth of Puritan opposition Flashcards
(9 cards)
Who were the Puritans in early 17th-century England?
Puritans were radical Protestants who wanted to further reform the Church of England by removing all remnants of Catholic ritual, hierarchy, and doctrine.
What was the Millenary Petition?
A petition allegedly signed by 1,000 Puritan ministers, asking James I to reform the Church to remove “popish” practices such as the sign of the cross in baptism and wearing of surplices.
What phrase did James use to show his support for bishops?
“No bishop, no king” – James believed that episcopal church structure supported royal authority, so he opposed Puritan calls for Presbyterian-style governance.
What actions did Archbishop Bancroft take against Puritans?
He enforced strict conformity, leading to the silencing or removal of about 300 ministers who refused to conform to the Anglican Church.
What was the Book of Sports and why did it anger Puritans?
It was a royal declaration allowing certain sports on Sundays. Puritans, who viewed Sunday as a strict Sabbath, saw this as a threat to moral discipline and proof of James’s unsympathetic attitude.
How did James I’s approach to Spain affect Puritans?
His peace with Catholic Spain and pursuit of the Spanish Match (marriage alliance) alarmed Puritans, who feared a return to Catholic influence in English politics and the Church.
How did Puritans react to James I’s religious stance?
They were increasingly disillusioned by his support of bishops, Arminians, and tolerance of Catholicism, which led to growing alienation and opposition.
Was Puritan opposition a serious challenge during James I’s reign?
Not a direct threat, but their growing dissatisfaction laid the ideological groundwork for later religious and political conflicts, especially under Charles I.
What impact did Puritan opposition have after James I’s reign?
It contributed to rising religious tensions, political unrest, and helped shape opposition to the Stuart monarchy, eventually playing a major role in the English Civil War.
