Wentworth and the policy of thorough in England and Ireland Flashcards
(16 cards)
Who was Thomas Wentworth?
A key advisor to Charles I; became Lord Deputy of Ireland in 1632 and later Earl of Strafford. Architect of the “Policy of Thorough.”
What is the “Policy of Thorough”?
A strategy developed by Wentworth and Laud to enforce absolute royal authority and efficiency in government, bypassing local elites and Parliament.
What was Thorough in the context of English government?
An attempt to strengthen central royal authority, control local government (especially JPs and sheriffs), and reduce corruption and resistance.
How did Wentworth enforce Thorough in England before going to Ireland?
Supported Charles during the Personal Rule (1629–1640), enforcing collection of taxes like Ship Money and cracking down on opposition.
Why did Thorough alarm the gentry?
It undermined their traditional influence in local government and increased royal interference in local affairs.
What was Wentworth’s title and role in Ireland?
Lord Deputy of Ireland (from 1632), responsible for imposing English royal authority and reforming Irish governance.
What were Wentworth’s aims in Ireland?
Impose royal control, increase revenue, enforce religious conformity, and assert dominance over all social groups.
Which three groups did Wentworth target in Ireland?
The Old English (Catholic landowners), the Gaelic Irish, and Protestant New English settlers.
How did Wentworth increase royal income in Ireland?
Raised customs duties, enforced payment of rents and fines, and reasserted Crown land rights through land inquiries.
What was the “Graces” controversy?
Charles had promised religious concessions (“Graces”) to Irish Catholics in return for subsidies, but Wentworth refused to confirm them, angering Catholic elites.
How did Wentworth enforce religious conformity?
Backed the Anglican Church and persecuted Catholic clergy; opposed both Catholic and Presbyterian dissent.
Why was Wentworth unpopular in Ireland?
Alienated all major groups—Catholics, Protestants, and even royalists—due to high-handed methods and aggressive taxation.
How did his actions in Ireland contribute to later conflict?
Created widespread resentment that exploded in the Irish Rebellion of 1641.
Why was Wentworth recalled to England in 1639?
Charles needed help managing the Bishops’ Wars with Scotland; Wentworth advised raising an Irish army to fight the Scots.
What led to Wentworth’s execution?
Seen as a threat by Parliament. Attainted and executed in 1641 due to fears he would use Irish troops against the English Parliament.
What was the Bill of Attainder?
A legal mechanism that allowed Parliament to execute Wentworth without a trial by declaring him guilty of treason.
