Social, economic and financial affairs Flashcards
(159 cards)
1
Q
Describe Elizabeth’s ordinary income sources.
A
Elizabeth’s ordinary income came from regular crown income sources such as landed estates, customs duties, profits from justices, and patronage.
2
Q
What was the situation with new coins and prices during this period?
A
New coins were circulating, but prices didn’t go down; the Council had to raise loans in Antwerp, which led to a fall in the value of the pound.
3
Q
What issue arose with merchants and traders regarding new money?
A
The problem was that merchants and traders charged as much or more in new money as they had charged in the old; imported raw materials were particularly affected, partly because demand outstripped supply.
4
Q
What motivated Elizabethans to develop new markets during this period?
A
Elizabethans were eager to develop new markets, especially as demand at home and in Europe for woollen products declined; they were ready to travel long distances, with much of the finance for such enterprises coming from private investors, sometimes in the form of joint-stock companies; profits were variable.
5
Q
What was the role of the Muscovy Company in trade?
A
The Muscovy Company had already begun trade with Russia, selling woollen goods in Russia and bringing back furs; later, they imported goods such as hides, tar, timber, and wax, which proved useful in the expansion of English naval capacity.
6
Q
What was the further aim of Elizabethan traders regarding silk and spices?
A
The further aim was to buy silk and spices using a route down the River Volga to Persia, thus undercutting the Portuguese, whose route to India around Africa was very laborious.
7
Q
What action did Elizabeth I take regarding whaling in 1577?
A
In 1577, Elizabeth I granted some traders a monopoly on whaling round Spitzbergen, but the English found it hard to maintain their position against the whalers already in the area.
8
Q
What was the rivalry faced by English merchants regarding trade with Germany?
A
There was a rivalry with the merchants of the Hanse who strove to win control of trade with Germany.
9
Q
What challenges did English merchants face in the Baltic Sea?
A
Danes charged heavy tolls on shipping in the Baltic, while Mediterranean trade suffered badly from attacks of pirates.
10
Q
What were some of the key provisions of the 1572 Vagabonds or Poor Relief Act?
A
Contributions towards the Poor Rate became compulsory, and begging was licensed in parishes where relief could not be provided.
11
Q
What was the purpose of the 1598 Act for the Relief of the Poor?
A
The families of the ‘impotent’, and often aged, poor were to be encouraged to provide for them.
12
Q
Explain the concept of extraordinary income in Elizabeth’s financial management.
A
Extraordinary income refers to funds that Elizabeth could raise through parliamentary subsidies, which were not regular and required her to call parliament when she needed additional funds.
13
Q
Define the limitations Elizabeth faced regarding taxation.
A
Elizabeth could not levy taxation without parliamentary consent, which meant she had to ensure her policies were financed through ordinary income and avoid calling parliament too often.
14
Q
How did Elizabeth’s inherited debts impact her financial situation in 1558?
A
Elizabeth inherited debts of £227,000 from Mary I, primarily due to the war with France, which included 14% interest on a loan owed to the Antwerp Exchange.
15
Q
Explain the role of William Paulet in Elizabeth’s financial administration.
A
William Paulet served as a highly experienced Lord Treasurer and provided valuable advice on financial matters during Elizabeth’s reign.
16
Q
What were the three reasons for financial difficulties identified by Gresham?
A
Gresham identified the debasement of coinage by Henry VIII, ongoing wars, and issues with the Hanseatic League as the three main reasons for financial difficulties.
17
Q
Describe Gresham’s influence on Elizabeth’s credit rating.
A
Gresham emphasized the importance of maintaining an excellent credit rating to facilitate easy loans and advocated for relaxing usury laws to allow for more borrowing.
18
Q
How did Elizabeth manage her court expenses?
A
As a single woman, Elizabeth’s court expenses were lower than they would have been if she had a family, and she avoided lavish expenditures and magnificent building projects.
19
Q
What was the financial outcome by 1576 regarding Elizabeth’s debts?
A
By 1576, the Chancellor of the Exchequer reported to the House of Commons that the debt was no longer an issue.
20
Q
How did Elizabeth’s revenue from crown lands change during her reign?
A
Revenue from crown lands increased from £86,000 to £111,000 over Elizabeth’s reign, although this was less than the gains of most nobility.
21
Q
Explain the process of parliamentary taxation during Elizabeth’s reign.
A
Parliamentary taxation involved Elizabeth asking parliament for money, which they generally granted, with taxes collected in forms such as fifteenths and tenths.
22
Q
What was the typical financial outcome of a parliamentary subsidy during Elizabeth’s reign?
A
A typical parliamentary subsidy, along with two-fifteenths and tenths, would bring in about £140,000, which was significantly less than during Henry VIII’s reign but still sufficient for Elizabeth.
23
Q
How did Elizabeth’s approach to land management differ from that of the nobility?
A
Unlike the nobility, who adopted aggressive land management systems to increase rents, Elizabeth was cautious and kept much of her crown land on long leases.
24
Q
What was the impact of Elizabeth’s reluctance to exploit her tenants?
A
Elizabeth’s reluctance to exploit her tenants limited her potential revenue from crown lands, as she did not sell land aggressively or increase rents significantly.
25
Describe the impact of the revision of the Book of Rates on customs duties during Elizabeth I's reign.
The revision of the Book of Rates led to an increase in the number of imports subject to tax from 790 items to 1170, and the amount of tax was often increased by 100%. This resulted in customs revenue leaping from £29,000 in 1556-7 to £83,000 in 1558-9.
26
Explain the challenges faced by Elizabeth I in increasing customs revenue.
Elizabeth I could only increase customs revenue by raising rates or encouraging more trade, but she could not revise customs further, and actions to expand trade were not readily taken by the government.
27
How did the export of woollen cloth contribute to England's economy in 1563?
In 1563, exports totaled £1,100,000, with 81% being woollen cloth. The growth of woollen cloth receipts depended on finding new markets.
28
What was one of the unintended consequences of the new Book of Rates?
One unintended consequence was an increase in smuggling due to higher duties, leading to the 1559 Act that regulated where and when goods could be loaded or landed.
29
Define the role of customs farmers as suggested by Gresham.
Customs farmers would pay the government a fixed rate and then collect customs duties, keeping any profit they could make, although they often negotiated favorable terms with the government.
30
Describe the efficiency savings achieved during Mary I's reign.
During Mary I's reign, ¾ of crown revenue was collected by the Exchequer of Receipt, leading to better oversight of royal finances and less duplication of officials, resulting in savings.
31
Explain Paulet's approach to managing royal finances.
Paulet aimed to end the practice of storing money in officials' homes, insisting on direct responsibility for cash flow to avoid speculation and needless borrowing.
32
What issues arose in the Exchequer due to Paulet's deteriorating health?
As Paulet's health declined, it was revealed that several Exchequer tellers had defaulted on £44,000 borrowed from royal funds, prompting Cecil to introduce limited reforms.
33
How did inflation affect officials' salaries during Elizabeth I's reign?
Inflation eroded the value of officials' salaries, and there were few pay rises, leading to encouragement for officials to seek unofficial income through payments for favors.
34
What was the purpose of the small group of councillors formed during Elizabeth I's reign?
A small group of councillors acted as a finance committee to draw up budgets, identify cuts, collect debts more effectively, and consider the sale of crown lands.
35
Describe the significance of the new building constructed for the Exchequer.
The new building at Westminster in 1559, costing £8,000, was constructed to accommodate at least 80 financial officials, enhancing efficiency in managing royal finances.
36
What income did the Church provide to the crown after the Reformation?
After the Reformation, the Church provided income to the crown through First Fruits and Tenths, a tax that had previously gone to the pope.
37
Explain how Elizabeth I managed bishops' positions to gain income.
Elizabeth I kept bishops' positions vacant to gain additional income from the Church, as these vacancies allowed the crown to collect more revenue.
38
Describe the impact of recusancy fines on Roman Catholics after 1581.
Recusancy fines for non-attendance at church increased after 1581, leading to sporadic collection, particularly in counties where Justices of the Peace were sympathetic to Roman Catholicism.
39
Explain the taxation rate of the Church compared to the laity.
The rate of taxation for the Church was already higher proportionally than that of the laity, which led some government members to consider it better for Roman Catholics to pay fines rather than attend church.
40
How did Elizabeth I view the war in the Netherlands?
Elizabeth I had an ambivalent view of the war in the Netherlands; she felt she could not be seen to encourage rebels due to her own situation in Ireland, which was similar to that of Philip II with the Dutch.
41
What concerns did Elizabeth I have regarding Spanish power?
Elizabeth I was concerned about the growth of Spanish power and was ready to encourage the Dutch to remain rebellious to occupy Spanish attention and resources, hoping this would reduce Spain's inclination to turn on England.
42
Define the religious dimension of the situation in the Netherlands during Elizabeth I's reign.
The religious dimension involved many of the Dutch rebels being Calvinists, which was seen in England as part of a Europe-wide fight against Roman Catholicism.
43
How did the outbreak of rioting in 1566 affect England?
The outbreak of rioting in 1566 led to many Flemings leaving Flanders and settling in England, enhancing royal income through their manufacturing skills.
44
What challenge did England pose to Spain regarding trade with Spanish America?
England challenged Spain's monopoly of trade with Spanish America even before relations grew hostile, with Cecil stating that England did not acknowledge the pope's right to bestow kingdoms.
45
Describe the actions taken by England against Flemish merchants in 1563.
In 1563, England restricted the privileges of Flemish merchants by raising customs duties and prohibiting some imports, expecting them to spend their profits on English goods; Spanish retaliated with similar restrictions and English merchants briefly abandoned Antwerp for Germany; normal trading returned in 1565.
46
Explain the consequences of English piracy on relations with Spain.
Spain held England responsible for much of the piracy in the English Channel, despite many pirates being French Huguenots and Dutch rebels, which led to resentment from the English regarding the treatment of their sailors.
47
What event in 1568 provoked a reaction from Spain?
In 1568, Elizabeth I allowed money to be collected in England to help Dutch rebels and permitted Dutch pirates, known as Sea Beggars, to use English ports, provoking a reaction from Spain.
48
How did Elizabeth I respond to the seizure of ships carrying bullion in December 1568?
Elizabeth I took over a loan meant for Spanish troops after pirates forced the ships to shelter in English ports, leading to Spanish retaliation against English property.
49
What was the outcome of the trade embargo between England and Spain?
The trade embargo lasted until 1573, with both parties suffering losses, but England gained an advantage of £21,000 due to the situation.
50
Describe the events of 1572 regarding the Sea Beggars.
In 1572, Elizabeth I expelled the Sea Beggars from English ports and seized bases in the Netherlands, which precipitated the next stage of the Dutch Revolt, which in long term, would make considerable demands on English resources; E’s advisors divided about whether aid to Dutch was good policy, and E procrastinated.
51
What was the 'Spanish Fury' in 1576?
The 'Spanish Fury' in 1576 was a mutiny of Spanish troops in Antwerp due to unpaid wages, which resulted in violence and robbery against members of the Merchant Adventurers.
52
How did the mutiny of Spanish troops affect English merchants?
The mutiny of Spanish troops not only robbed English merchants of money and goods but also forced them to deal with Spanish soldiers who entered their houses.
53
Describe the significance of Francis Drake's voyages in relation to England's hostility with Spain.
Drake's voyages, particularly in 1577 and 1580, were significant as they not only aimed to investigate Spanish strength in Chile but also involved attacks on Spanish shipping, which brought considerable prize money to England and contributed to the growing hostility with Spain.
54
Explain the financial outcomes of Drake's return in 1580.
Upon returning in 1580, Drake had amassed considerable prize money, keeping £10,000 for himself and distributing a similar amount among his crew, which highlighted the financial benefits of his expeditions; he was knighted.
55
How did the Treaty of Nonsuch impact England's financial commitments in 1585?
The Treaty of Nonsuch committed England to providing an English force in the Netherlands at an annual cost of £126,000, which was nearly half of Elizabeth I's annual ordinary income, increasing financial strain on the crown.
56
What were the consequences of Philip II's actions in 1585 for England?
Philip II's seizure of English shipping in Spanish harbors in 1585 escalated tensions and contributed to the necessity for England to intervene in the Netherlands, further straining Elizabeth I's finances.
57
Define the impact of inflation on Elizabeth I's government.
Inflation severely affected Elizabeth I's government by limiting her financial capabilities, as rising prices, particularly for food, strained the economy and public opinion blamed individuals for price increases.
58
How did Elizabeth I attempt to address inflation during her reign?
Elizabeth I attempted to address inflation by revaluing the coinage to bring prices down, but this had limited success and was complicated by the onset of war, which increased supply costs.
59
Explain the role of population growth in the inflationary pressures during Elizabeth I's reign.
The growing population increased demand for food, leading to higher prices, especially when supplies were short, exacerbating the inflationary pressures faced by Elizabeth I's government.
60
Describe the challenges faced by wage-earners due to inflation in the 1590s.
Wage-earners faced significant challenges as real wages did not keep pace with inflation, and by the 1590s, the combination of war and poor harvests led to famine, worsening their financial situation.
61
What was the rationale behind the recoinage initiated in 1560?
The recoinage was based on Gresham's law, which stated that bad money drives out good; the government believed that replacing debased coins with good ones would help ease inflation.
62
How did the recoinage process affect public confidence in currency?
In short term, the recoinage process led to suspicion about the actual value of coins and a lack of confidence in the new coins, as prices did not decrease as expected.
63
What were the government's attempts to control inflation through trade regulations?
The government attempted to control inflation by reducing imports and enforcing laws on clothing to cut down on luxury imports, but these measures led to trade embargos.
64
Discuss the long-term effects of inflation on Elizabeth I's financial policies.
The long-term effects of inflation on Elizabeth I's financial policies included a reluctance to spend, increased difficulty in raising revenue, and a growing public discontent regarding economic conditions.
65
Describe the role of the Lord Treasurer in relation to the Council's understanding of inflation.
The Lord Treasurer pointed out to the Council that they did not understand the driving force behind inflation, which was an increase in population.
66
Explain the legislation used by Elizabeth I to control prices.
Elizabeth I's predecessors had enacted laws imposing maximum prices on certain goods, but enforcement was challenging. Elizabeth only proclaimed a maximum price for French wines, which had little impact on the budgets of the poor.
67
How did Elizabeth I attempt to manage food resources during times of rising prices?
Elizabeth I forbade the export of grain when prices rose and enforced the Book of Orders in 1586 to prevent hoarding and ensure grain was sold in small quantities to make it more affordable for the poor.
68
What was the significance of fasting during Lent and fish days in Elizabethan England?
Fasting during Lent and the observance of fish days aimed to encourage fishing, increase the fleet, and conserve food stocks, although it faced some protest from radical Protestants after Wednesday became a fish day in 1563 and it was castigated as ‘Cecil’s Fast’; considered fasting to be a practice for papists only.
69
Define the Book of Orders and its purpose in 1586.
The Book of Orders was a set of instructions sent to Justices of the Peace (JPs) in 1586, ordering no hoarding of grain and ensuring that corn was sold in small quantities to make it affordable for the poor.
70
Explain the complaints regarding food distribution in Elizabethan England.
There were complaints about speculators and the unfair distribution of food, particularly from south-eastern counties, which felt that London was hoarding food and leaving other areas short.
71
Describe the impact of the 1597-8 parliament legislation on laborers and the poor.
The legislation aimed to refurbish houses that had fallen into disrepair, fix wage rates, regulate cloth manufacturing, and provide assistance to the poor while punishing those who exploited them.
72
How was overseas trade developed during Elizabeth I's reign?
In 1558, overseas trade was primarily focused on cloth exports, with the Merchant Adventurers based in Antwerp, while the Muscovy Company began developing the Russian market and other merchants explored trade with the Guinea coast.
73
What were the challenges faced by English merchants in overseas trade?
English merchants faced challenges such as the Spanish control of American trade and the Portuguese and Venetian dominance in Near and Far East trade.
74
Explain the concept of joint-stock companies and their origin.
Joint-stock companies originated in Italy, allowing investors to buy shares in a company and receive profits proportional to their investment.
75
What was the Muscovy Company's role in trade during Elizabeth I's reign?
The Muscovy Company, established in 1555, held a monopoly on trade between London and Moscow, exporting woollen goods to Russia and importing valuable resources like furs, hides, and timber.
76
Describe John Hawkins' involvement in the slave trade.
In 1562, John Hawkins sailed to the Canary Islands and the Guinea coast, enslaving 300 people and selling them for profit, returning with ships full of hides, ginger, and sugar.
77
How did English merchants expand their trading activities in the Mediterranean during the 1570s?
In the 1570s, English merchants began trading more directly with the Mediterranean, previously dominated by Italian merchants, importing items like silks, spices, olive oil, and currants; Venetian Company.
78
Describe the establishment of the Levant Company in the 1580s.
The Levant Company was established in the 1580s to formalize trade with the Turkish Empire.
79
Explain the challenges faced by English ports in expanding trade during the 1580s.
English ports struggled to expand due to the dominance of trade in London, leading to complaints from merchants in Hull.
80
Define the role of the Eastland Company formed in 1579.
The Eastland Company aimed to break into Baltic trade, which was dominated by the Hanse, primarily exporting cloth and importing naval supplies.
81
How did Francis Drake's activities evolve in relation to the Spanish Empire?
Initially hoping to trade legitimately, Drake turned to piracy due to the hostility of Spain and the needs of colonists for goods.
82
Explain the significance of Martin Frobisher and John Davis's attempts in the late 16th century.
They sought to discover a north-west passage to establish a trade route to the East, competing with Portuguese dominance.
83
Describe the implications of Humphrey Gilbert and Walter Raleigh's activities on the east coast of America.
Their activities had potential long-term implications for overseas trade, although they were not under the direct influence of Elizabeth I.
84
How did John Newbery and Ralph Fitch contribute to trade with India?
They cultivated closer links with India, with Fitch reaching Agra and presenting a letter from Elizabeth I to the Sultan.
85
What was the outcome of James Lancaster's voyage to India in 1591?
Lancaster's voyage led to the formation of the East India Company in 1600, which would surpass profits of other Elizabethan ventures and lay the foundations of the British Empire in India.
86
Identify the problems faced by European trade during the Dutch Revolt.
The Dutch Revolt created insecurity for trade, prompting Merchant Adventurers to relocate their staple to Emden and Hamburg.
87
Explain the challenges faced by the Muscovy Company in Russia.
Anthony Jenkinson encountered intrigue and rivalries at the court of Ivan IV, complicating his mission to gain passage to Persia.
88
Describe the difficulties encountered by Jenkinson in Persia.
Jenkinson found that the Shah was more concerned with the Turks and was reluctant to engage in trade with non-Muslims.
89
What were the issues Hawkins faced in the transatlantic slave trade?
Hawkins faced Spanish monopoly claims, resistance from West African tribes, and an attack from the Spanish fleet in 1568, which meant all profits lost.
90
How did Hawkins manage to continue his slave trade despite resistance?
He took advantage of conflicts between warring tribes in West Africa, which allowed him to negotiate deals for prisoners.
91
What were the consequences of the Spanish fleet's attack on Hawkins in 1568?
Hawkins escaped with two small ships, but lost the queen's vessel, resulting in no profits to compensate her.
92
Explain the difficulties encountered in finding a passage to the East.
Attempts to find a passage were hindered by adverse weather conditions and the challenging geography of the inlets; Gilbert lost at sea after attempting to establish colony on Newfoundland; Raleigh’s hopes of establishing a colony in Virginia dashed when pioneers came home with Drake in 1586.
93
Describe the impact of refugees from the Netherlands on the English textile industry.
The arrival of refugees from the Netherlands led to changes in the English textile industry as cloth workers settled in England, bringing their skills and knowledge of silk-weaving and starch-making, which helped to diversify the textile business and brought fresh prosperity to East Anglia.
94
Explain the role of monopolies and patents during Elizabeth I's reign.
Monopolies and patents were grants made by Elizabeth I that provided exclusive rights to trade or manufacture. While they protected inventors and developers, they were also used as a means to reward courtiers, leading to complaints about price increases due to lack of competition.
95
How did Elizabeth I respond to concerns about monopolies in 1597?
In 1597, the House of Commons expressed concern about monopolies and patents. Elizabeth I promised amendments through her Lord Keeper, resulting in some grants being withdrawn during a period of social unrest.
96
Define the term 'vagrancy' in the context of Elizabethan England.
Vagrancy refers to the condition of being homeless or wandering without a permanent residence, which increased during Elizabeth I's reign due to rising poverty and unemployment.
97
Do you think the Elizabethan government effectively handled the issues of poverty and vagrancy?
The effectiveness of the Elizabethan government in handling poverty and vagrancy is debated, as contemporaries noted a significant increase in the number of poor and vagrants, with rising concerns about social unrest and the economic conditions contributing to these issues.
98
Explain the relationship between population growth and poverty during Elizabeth I's reign.
Population growth during Elizabeth I's reign outstripped productivity, leading to rising prices that exceeded wage increases, which reduced the purchasing power of workers and contributed to increased poverty and vagrancy.
99
How did the increase in population affect the labor market in Elizabethan England?
The increase in population led to a larger number of laborers in towns, many of whom were under-employed, raising concerns about potential riots and rebellion due to economic instability; strong, but largely unfounded, rumour asserted that vagrants had been prominent in the Rising in the North in 1569.
100
Describe the significance of the year 1601 in relation to monopolies.
In 1601, monopolies became a significant point of contention in Parliament, with MPs presenting evidence of how monopolies raised prices. Elizabeth I responded by suspending some grants and revoking those deemed harmful.
101
What were some causes of the rise in vagrancy during Elizabeth I's reign?
Causes of the rise in vagrancy included population growth, economic decline in living standards, the discharge of former soldiers and sailors with little support, and the enclosure of arable land for pasture, which led to unemployment.
102
Explain the concept of purveyance and its impact on Elizabethan society.
Purveyance was the crown's right to buy goods at less than market prices, which led to abuses that caused public outcry. In 1589, MPs protested against these abuses, prompting Elizabeth I to promise reforms.
103
How did the economic conditions of Elizabethan England contribute to social unrest?
Economic conditions, including rising prices, declining living standards, and increased unemployment, contributed to social unrest as more people migrated to cities in search of work, leading to fears of riots and rebellion.
104
Describe the demographic changes in England from the 1540s to 1601.
From the 1540s, when the population was about 2.8 million, to 1601, when it reached approximately 4.1 million, England experienced significant population growth at rate of over 1% per year up to 1586, after a period of disease in the 1550s.
105
What were some of the tricks used by vagrants to deceive people, according to Thomas Harman?
Thomas Harman identified 23 different categories of knavery used by vagrants, including tricks such as hookers stealing clothes from washing lines to deceive naive individuals.
106
How did the enclosure of land contribute to unemployment in Elizabethan England?
The enclosure of arable land for pasture reduced the availability of jobs for laborers, leading to increased unemployment and contributing to the rise in vagrancy.
107
Explain the significance of the year 1586 for Sir Walter Raleigh's colonial ambitions.
In 1586, Sir Walter Raleigh's hopes of establishing a colony in Virginia were dashed when the pioneers returned home with Sir Francis Drake, marking a setback for English colonial efforts.
108
Describe the agrarian legislation passed by the early Elizabethan government in 1563.
The early Elizabethan government passed an Act in 1563 that confirmed agrarian legislation from the early Tudors, asserting that land which had been under plough for four consecutive years since 1528 and land currently tilled could not be converted to pasture.
109
Explain the perspective of Thomas Tusser on enclosure for tillage.
Thomas Tusser viewed enclosure for tillage as beneficial because it increased crop yields, indicating that it was more advantageous than enclosure for grazing; in 1593 the Tillage Acts were repealed, showing that enclosure was no longer seen as a problem.
110
How did towns and cities generally address the issue of poverty during the Elizabethan era?
Towns and cities were more effective in dealing with the poor due to better resources and the closer geographical proximity of the poor.
111
What measures did London take to support different groups of poor people?
London acquired St Bartholomew's Hospital for the sick, used Bethlehem Hospital for the insane, bought St Thomas' Hospital, and adapted the former home of the Greyfriars into Christ's Hospital for orphans.
112
Define the approach taken by Norwich to manage poverty.
Norwich forbade begging and had 650 better-off householders contribute regularly to relieve about 200 poor townspeople, showing that a compulsory levy was necessary to gather sufficient funds.
113
What was the situation regarding bequests for the poor during the Reformation period?
Bequests for the poor had declined during the Reformation period, impacting the support available for impoverished individuals.
114
Describe the employment regulations established by the Elizabethan government in the Statute of Artificers.
The Statute of Artificers mandated that unmarried individuals under 30 must serve any employer needing them, aimed at reducing youth unemployment and economic migration.
115
How did inflation affect employers and wage rates during the Elizabethan era?
Inflation pressured employers regarding demands for higher wages, leading to discussions in parliament and the establishment of wage rates that were often set low and rarely altered.
116
Explain the working hours regulations enforced as a result of the Statute of Artificers in 1563.
Working hours were set from 5 am to 7 or 8 pm in summer, with a maximum of two and a half hours for meal breaks, and from dawn to sunset in winter.
117
What consequences did workers face for absenteeism under the work regulations of the Statute of Artificers in 1563?
Workers who were absent would forfeit 1d per hour, which was significant given that daily wages might only be 6d.
118
How did local customs influence the enforcement of wage regulations?
It seems likely that local customs prevailed over the formal regulations, affecting how widely the wage regulations were enforced.
119
What types of compensation were sometimes included in wage rates during the Elizabethan era?
Some wage rates included wages in kind, such as food and drink, which may have helped alleviate the impact of price rises.
120
Describe the apprenticeship requirements established by the Act.
The Act enforced a minimum 7-year apprenticeship for anyone exercising a 'craft, mystery or occupation', specifically aimed at the better advancement of husbandry and tillage. Holders of at least fifteen acres of land could take on apprentices aged ten to eighteen until they reached twenty-one or twenty-four.
121
Explain the restrictions on apprenticeships in urban areas according to the Act.
In towns with overcrowded occupations, the number of apprentices practitioners could take on was limited. For example, mercers, drapers, and goldsmiths could only have their own sons as apprentices.
122
How did the Act affect the movement of the unemployed population?
The Act failed to immobilize the population; those out of work often moved to other towns and villages in search of employment. Many charged with vagrancy were young men, particularly labourers and apprentices whose terms of service had ended.
123
Define the term 'vagabond' as used in the 1572 Vagabonds or Poor Relief Act.
The term 'vagabond' included a variety of fraudsters, such as minstrels not belonging to any baron, scholars from Oxford and Cambridge begging without permission, and shipmen falsely claiming to be shipwrecked.
124
What measures were included in the 1563 Alms Act regarding the poor?
The 1563 Alms Act revived earlier statutes for punishing sturdy beggars and distinguished between 'the idle' and 'the deserving', ensuring that 'impotent, aged and needy persons' received help from a Poor Rate; those who refused to pay levy would be asked by bishop to do so and if still recalcitrant could be reported to JPs and forced to pay.
125
How did the 1576 Act for the Relief of the Poor aim to assist the poor?
The 1576 Act aimed to provide licenses for people without disabilities who had lost their possessions and for those with particular needs to beg. It required large towns to stock materials so that the 'idle' poor could be put to work and earn 'honest' wages.
126
What was the consequence for persistent beggars under the 1576 Act?
Persistent beggars were to be sent to Houses of Correction, with two established per county, where they would be sentenced to forced labor.
127
Explain the enforcement challenges faced by the government regarding the working population.
Attempts to control the working population faced challenges due to lack of enforcement and the mixed pattern of employment, with less than half of the population being entirely dependent on wages.
128
Describe the role of agriculture in employment during the period discussed.
Agriculture was the dominant source of employment, with many farmers relying on casual labor rather than having regular staff outside their families, so the Act of Artificers had little relevance to them.
129
What were the penalties for begging without a license according to the 1572 Act?
Anyone over fourteen found begging without a license would be whipped and branded, while those under fourteen would be whipped; children of convicted beggars aged five to fourteen to be put to service in 'honest' occupations.
130
Describe the main purpose of the 1598 Act for the Relief of the Poor.
The main purpose was to establish a maximum rate for compulsory Poor Rate to be set and levied locally, ensuring support for the poor, particularly through the appointment of Overseers of the Poor.
131
Explain the role of Overseers of the Poor as outlined in the 1598 Act for the Relief of the Poor.
JPs were to appoint four Overseers of the Poor at Easter who were to provide stocks of material for the adult, non-disabled poor and relieve older, ill and disabled people, as well as administer laws.
132
Define the term 'deserving' and 'undeserving' poor as recognized in the 1601 Act for the Relief of the Poor.
The 'deserving' poor were those who were seen as worthy of sympathy and support, while the 'undeserving' poor were viewed as less deserving of aid and treated more harshly.
133
How did the 1598 Act for the Punishment of Rogues, Vagabonds and Sturdy Beggars address the issue of begging?
The act forbade begging and imposed harsh punishments on 'sturdy beggars', including whipping and banishment, while also providing for their return to their birthplace or last residence.
134
What was the significance of the 1601 Act for the Relief of the Poor in relation to the Church's role in poor relief?
The 1601 Act made the previous temporary Poor Law permanent, marking a shift in responsibility from the Church to the government for the care of the poor.
135
Describe the impact of the Reformation on charitable donations during this period.
The Reformation shifted the perception of charity from a means to earn merit with God to a matter of personal conscience, leading to increased bequests for poor relief in wills.
136
Explain how private endowments contributed to the support of the poor according to the 1598 Act for the Relief of the Poor.
Private endowments were encouraged as long as they provided at least £10 per annum, allowing individuals to contribute to facilities for the poor.
137
How did the Earl of Leicester contribute to poor relief in Warwick?
The Earl of Leicester established a hospital for twelve poor men and appointed Thomas Cartwright to manage it, who then collected funds and provided relief to the poor.
138
What actions did merchants in Bristol take in response to a poor harvest in 1585?
In 1585, two merchants chartered ships to bring back grain from east coast ports to relieve the starving population in the Severn valley and parts of Wales.
139
Describe the types of charitable contributions made by the clergy during this period.
Clergy members were generous to the poor, contributing to hospitals and founding almshouses, as well as distributing gifts in kind, such as leftover food.
140
How did the bequest of Henry Tooley benefit the poor in Ipswich, Suffolk?
Henry Tooley's bequest led to the establishment of residential provisions for 40 poor people and a hospital for the sick and orphans in Ipswich.
141
What was the maximum age for apprenticeship of pauper children as mandated by the 1598 Act for the Relief of the Poor?
Pauper children were to be apprenticed until the age of 24 for males and 21 for females; begging also forbidden.
142
Explain the consequences for dangerous rogues as per the 1598 Act for the Punishment of Rogues, Vagabonds and Sturdy Beggars.
Dangerous rogues faced banishment or were sent to the galleys as a punishment.
143
What was the general attitude towards the poor as reflected in the Elizabethan Poor Law?
The Elizabethan Poor Law reflected a growing recognition of the need to differentiate between the deserving and undeserving poor, with a more sympathetic approach towards the former.
144
What did Gresham try to convince Cecil regarding usury laws?
Gresham tried to convince Cecil to relax laws on usury so that some interest could be levied and more money borrowed within England.
145
How did Cecil's approach to finance differ from Gresham's?
Cecil's approach to finance was essentially conservative, but in 1571, an Act was passed allowing 10% interest to be charged on loans.
146
What significant financial institution did Gresham found in 1565?
Gresham founded the Royal Exchange in London in 1565.
147
What was the financial situation of Elizabeth by 1584?
By 1584, Elizabeth had a surplus of nearly £300,000 and less need to economise.
148
What impact did the war with Spain and expeditions to Ireland have on Elizabeth's finances?
The war with Spain and expeditions to Ireland had a disastrous impact on Elizabeth's financial situation.
149
What were the two forms of taxation collected during Elizabeth's reign?
Taxation was collected in two forms: fifteenths and tenths, which raised about £30,000, and a subsidy that produced a little under £100,000.
150
Who made the assessments for parliamentary taxes?
Assessments for parliamentary taxes were made by local gentry who collected them, and many wealthy landowners under-assessed.
151
Why did Elizabeth not want to pay for a professional tax collecting service?
Elizabeth did not want to pay for a professional tax collecting service or alienate the gentry, who she relied on for much of her administration, by insisting that they increase assessments.
152
What efforts did Elizabeth make to encourage the finishing of cloth in England?
Elizabeth tried to encourage the finishing of cloth (dressing and dyeing) in England, which was mostly carried out in the Netherlands, so that a greater share of profits would stay in England.
153
How did Elizabeth generate revenue from merchants regarding cloth?
Elizabeth made money from selling licenses to exempt merchants from the requirement that cloth should be finished.
154
What was the situation regarding intervention in the Netherlands by 1585?
By 1585, intervention in the Netherlands was becoming almost a necessity; Leicester and Walsingham had been pressing for it, but Cecil still had doubts, fearing the expense.
155
What were the outcomes of Drake's expeditions in 1586 and 1587?
Drake’s expedition in 1586 of the Spanish Main showed little profit; however, he was more successful in 1587 with his attack in Cadiz and his capture of Spanish cargo worth £140,000, which also forced the Spanish to postpone sending the Armada to 1588, by which time its commander was dead.
156
How did Elizabeth profit from the growing hostility towards Spain?
Elizabeth had made some profit out of the growing hostility towards Spain, but the declaration of war was to ruin her financial security.
157
How was industrial production affected by price changes during this period?
One sector less affected was industrial production where prices reflected labour costs, and as the value of wages fell, these costs diminished also.
158
What did public opinion blame for the price rises?
Public opinion blamed price rises on the greed of individuals; those who built up large farms from enclosures were particular culprits and referred to as ‘greedy gulls.’
159
What happened to old coins by 1561?
By 1561, old coins had all been called in, and base alloys contained in them were used to fill up potholes.
