Mary I: Royal authority & Spanish marriage Flashcards
(9 cards)
What happened regarding Mary’s accession?
Lady Jane Grey was proclaimed Queen, but popular support for Mary quickly emerged. Northumberland’s attempt to stop Mary failed as the soldiers mutinied. Mary was proclaimed Queen in much of the South, and the Council deserted Northumberland to support her. There was rejoicing in the streets, possibly due to a return to Catholicism or the legitimacy of the monarch.
Who was most in favor of Mary’s accession?
Most who refused the religious reforms under Henry VIII, Somerset, Northumberland, and Edward, as well as devout Catholics.
What was Mary’s policy regarding government?
The restoration of Catholicism was more important than government.
What issues did Mary face?
Mary inherited regional divisions, lacked political acumen, was a Catholic in a predominantly Protestant country, and many of her councillors were inexperienced. She relied on Edward’s councillors, who were involved in distasteful religious reforms. Mary appointed 50 councillors, leading to an inefficient and factional-rivalry ridden court, and the Spanish marriage weakened her appeal.
What were the details of the Spanish marriage?
Mary longed for a Catholic marriage to produce a Catholic heir and prolong Catholicism in England. English suitors were not favored due to factional rivalry, and Mary was eager to marry and have children at the age of 37.
Why was Phillip chosen as a suitor?
He was Spanish, Catholic, and politically experienced.
What complications arose from the Spanish marriage?
Charles V was more keen on the marriage than Phillip himself, who obliged for political benefit. English opinion was very hostile, and Parliament failed to convince Mary to rethink. The English were unwelcoming to Phillip’s arrival, leading to clashes between Spanish and English courtiers. The marriage was a political failure as Mary failed to become pregnant, and the new Pope was anti-Spanish, putting England on hostile terms with the Papacy.
How did Mary attempt to raise positivity regarding the marriage?
Mary made it known that Phillip had the title King but no power in England, he would not inherit the throne upon her death, and foreigners had no right to power in English offices. However, people remained suspicious of the marriage.
