James' attitude to Catholics Flashcards
(8 cards)
How did James I initially approach Catholicism when he became king in 1603?
He was relatively tolerant at first, hoping to ease persecution and pursue religious peace. He even promised not to “persecute any that will be quiet and give an outward obedience.”
Why did English Catholics expect James I to be more lenient?
His mother, Mary, Queen of Scots, was a Catholic, and James had hinted at religious tolerance before coming to the English throne in 1603
Why did James I change his attitude toward Catholics after 1603?
Pressure from Protestant Parliament, public fear of Catholic plots, and the discovery of the Bye Plot (1603) and Gunpowder Plot (1605) made him take a harsher stance.
What was the Oath of Allegiance introduced in 1606?
A declaration Catholics had to make, affirming loyalty to the King over the Pope. It was designed to separate peaceful Catholics from those loyal to Rome.
Was James I’s anti-Catholic policy consistent?
No – although he punished Catholic extremists, James often moderated enforcement, especially when he was seeking diplomatic ties with Catholic powers like Spain.
How did the Spanish Match affect James’s Catholic policy?
The proposed marriage between Prince Charles and the Spanish Infanta led James to relax anti-Catholic laws temporarily, angering Protestants and Parliament.
How did Parliament respond to Catholicism during James’s reign?
Parliament remained strongly anti-Catholic, frequently pushing James to enforce recusancy laws and oppose Catholic influence, especially during foreign negotiations.
What was the result of James I’s approach to Catholicism?
James failed to find a lasting middle ground. His inconsistent policies alienated both Catholics (who faced repression) and Protestants (who feared Catholic influence).
