The impact of Catholicism on policies Flashcards
(10 cards)
In what ways did Catholicism affect James I’s domestic policy?
Catholicism led to anti-Catholic laws, increased surveillance, and oaths of loyalty, especially after events like the Gunpowder Plot (1605). James had to balance tolerance with Protestant pressure.
What was the political impact of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot?
It led to a crackdown on Catholics, including:
Oath of Allegiance (1606)
Heavy recusancy fines
Increased suspicion of Catholics in public life
Why was the Oath of Allegiance introduced in 1606?
To force Catholics to declare loyalty to the King over the Pope. It aimed to separate loyal subjects from potential Catholic traitors.
How did Parliament respond to the perceived Catholic threat?
Parliament frequently pushed for stricter anti-Catholic laws, resisted James’s attempts at tolerance, and opposed any foreign policy that involved Catholic powers.
How did James I’s foreign policy reflect Catholic influences?
James sought peace with Catholic Spain (Treaty of London, 1604) and pursued the Spanish Match, hoping to secure a Catholic marriage alliance for Prince Charles.
Why was the Spanish Match so politically divisive?
Protestants feared it would lead to Catholic influence at court and a reversal of the Reformation. Parliament strongly opposed it, seeing it as a betrayal of Protestant England.
How did Catholic-related issues affect James’s relationship with Parliament?
Tensions increased due to:
James’s diplomatic leniency toward Catholics
Parliament’s Protestant identity
Disagreements over foreign marriages and enforcement of anti-Catholic laws
Did James I attempt to tolerate Catholics?
Yes, early in his reign, James showed signs of toleration, especially for diplomatic reasons. However, this provoked backlash, especially after 1605, forcing a harder stance.
How did James I’s Catholic policies affect his public image?
His tolerance of Catholics was seen by many Protestants as suspicious or dangerous, undermining his credibility as a defender of the Protestant faith.
What was the overall impact of Catholicism on James I’s reign?
It caused major political friction, affected both domestic and foreign policy, and contributed to rising tensions with Parliament — laying groundwork for future conflict under Charles I.
