Wyatt Rebellion

Question 1

Causes of the Wyatt Rebellion?

Answer 1

1. Xenophobia/Concern over the marriage:
   - When Spanish negotiators arrived, crowds bowed their heads instead of cheering.
   - Rebels would prefer Edward Courtenay as King.
   - There was fear of Spanish influence overpowering Mary, and England being dragged into unnecessary conflict.
2. Religion:
   - All those involved were Protestant.
   - Courtenay had Protestant leanings.
   - Elizabeth was Protestant.
3. Political:
   - Protestant gentry worried about their opportunities to advance in court.
   - Wyatt used to be Sheriff of Kent.
4. Economic:
   - Economic hardship = less tolerant of change.
   - There had been a decline in the cloth industry.
   - Unemployed cloth workers in Kent joined in.

Question 2

Factors that made the Wyatt Rebellion a threat? (6 Points)

Answer 2

1. Challenging Mary’s royal authority.
2. Willing to overthrow Mary if necessary.
3. Lead by an experienced Sheriff.
4. 4000 men.
5. Some of Norfolk’s forces defected to the rebels.
6. Marched into London with little resistance. Got within a close proximity of Mary.

Question 3

Factors that reduced the threat of the Wyatt Rebellion? (4 Points.)

Answer 3

1. Courtenay confided in Gardiner and Gardiner told Mary, even though he originally supported Courtenay.
2. Due to Courtenay’s confession, the rebellion had to go ahead early (January rather than March.)
3. The hoped-for French support never materialised.
4. Mary gave an inspiring speech that turned London in her favour.