Events regarding Mary’s accession
Lady Jane Grey had been proclaimed Queen, but popular support for Mary was quick to appear.
Northumberland sent Navy to stop Mary, but this failed. as the soldier mutinied
Mary proclaimed Queen in much of the South
Council deserted Northumberland, supported Mary.
Rejoice on streets - whether this was due to a return to Catholicism or due to a legitimate monarch
Who was Mary’s accession most favoured by
Most who refused the religious reforms under H8/Somerset/Northumberland/Edward
Devout catholics.
What was Mary’s policy regarding government
Restoration of Catholicism was MORE important than Government
Issues for Mary
- Inherited regional divisions
- No political acumen, not born to rule
- Catholic in a country where there was a substantial Protestant minority
- Many of her councillors were inexperienced and had no political ability - e.g. Henry Bedingfield
- Relied on Edwards councillors, however they were greatly involved in the religious reforms that were distasteful to Mary
- Mary appointed 50 councillors, leading to an inefficient and factional-rivalry ridden court. (likely the Spanish marriage wasnt discussed)
- Spanish marriage weakened her appeal
Details of the Spanish Marriage
Mary longed for a Catholic marriage to produce a Catholic heir and prolong Catholicism within England.
Several suitors, English suitors weren’t favoured due to factional rivalry as the suitors family would excel socially.
Mary was eager to be married and have children - she was 37.
Why was Phillip chosen
He was Spanish, Catholic and politically experienced.
Complications of the Spanish marriage
Charles V was more keen than Phillip himself. But he obliged for political benefit
English opinion was VERY hostile. Parliament failed in getting Mary to rethink
English were very unwelcoming on his coming, both of Spanish and English courtiers clashed.
The marriage was a fundamental political failure because Mary failed to become pregnant.
New Pope was anti-Spanish, therefore England was on hostile terms with the Papacy
How did Mary attempt to raise positivity regarding the marriage
Made it well known that:
- Phillip had the title King, but had no power in England
- On her death, he would not inherit the throne
- Foreigners had no right of power in English offices
but, people were still suspicious of the marriage.
