AQA GCSE History Revision - Elizabethan England (1568-1603)- How Elizabeth I controlled her people
Pete Jackson・20 minutes read
Elizabeth I navigated significant challenges as a female monarch, using her strong personality and strategic control over Parliament to assert her authority while managing contentious issues like marriage and succession, particularly with threats from figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots. Her reign experienced decline in the 1590s amid economic troubles and political unrest, culminating in the failed rebellion of the Earl of Essex, which underscored the complexities of her rule and the eventual transition to James I.
Insights
- Elizabeth I navigated significant societal challenges as a female monarch, facing skepticism about her ability to govern effectively due to historical precedents set by previous queens. Despite these obstacles, she skillfully managed her relationship with Parliament, attending only key sessions and using her influence to control discussions and maintain authority, even imprisoning dissenting members like Peter Wentworth to suppress opposition.
- The contentious issue of succession loomed over Elizabeth's reign, as her decision to remain unmarried and childless created uncertainty about the future of the monarchy, particularly with rivals like Mary, Queen of Scots, posing a threat. This tension was further exacerbated by her declining health and the political maneuvering of figures like Robert Cecil, who ultimately facilitated a smooth transition of power to James I, ensuring stability despite the earlier crises and challenges Elizabeth faced during her rule.
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Recent questions
What is a monarchy?
A monarchy is a form of government where a single person, the monarch, rules the state. Monarchs often inherit their position and may hold varying degrees of power, from absolute authority to constitutional roles where their powers are limited by law or a governing body. Monarchies can be found in various forms around the world, including absolute monarchies, where the monarch has unrestricted power, and constitutional monarchies, where they act within the framework of a constitution. The role of the monarch can also be symbolic, representing national unity and continuity, while the actual governance is carried out by elected officials. Monarchies have a rich history and can be deeply intertwined with the culture and identity of a nation.
How do I improve my leadership skills?
Improving leadership skills involves a combination of self-awareness, education, and practical experience. Start by assessing your current strengths and weaknesses as a leader, seeking feedback from peers and mentors. Engage in leadership training programs or workshops that focus on essential skills such as communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution. Reading books on leadership and studying successful leaders can provide valuable insights. Additionally, practice your skills in real-life situations, whether in professional settings or community involvement, to build confidence and adaptability. Reflect on your experiences to learn from successes and failures, and remain open to continuous learning and growth in your leadership journey.
What is the role of Parliament?
Parliament plays a crucial role in a democratic government, serving as the legislative body responsible for making laws, debating policies, and representing the interests of the public. It typically consists of two houses: an upper house and a lower house, with members elected or appointed to represent various constituencies. Parliament's functions include scrutinizing the government's actions, approving budgets, and holding inquiries into public issues. It also provides a platform for political debate and discussion, allowing different viewpoints to be expressed. By passing legislation and overseeing the executive branch, Parliament ensures accountability and transparency in governance, contributing to the overall health of a democracy.
What are the benefits of being single?
Being single offers numerous benefits that can enhance personal growth and independence. It allows individuals the freedom to focus on their own interests, goals, and aspirations without the compromises that often come with a relationship. Singles can invest time in self-discovery, pursuing hobbies, and building strong friendships, which can lead to a more fulfilling life. Financial independence is another advantage, as single individuals can make decisions about their finances without needing to consider a partner's preferences. Additionally, being single can provide opportunities for travel and exploration, as there are fewer obligations to consider. Ultimately, this phase of life can foster resilience and self-sufficiency, laying a strong foundation for future relationships if one chooses to pursue them.
What causes economic decline?
Economic decline can be attributed to a variety of factors, often interrelated, that negatively impact a country's economic performance. Key causes include high unemployment rates, reduced consumer spending, and declining business investments, which can stem from political instability, poor governance, or external shocks such as natural disasters or global economic downturns. Additionally, structural issues within an economy, such as outdated industries or lack of innovation, can hinder growth. Inflation and rising costs of living can further exacerbate economic challenges, leading to increased poverty and social unrest. Effective economic policies and strategic planning are essential to address these issues and stimulate recovery, ensuring long-term stability and growth.
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Summary
00:00
Elizabeth I's Reign Challenges and Legacy
- Elizabeth I faced significant challenges as a female monarch when she ascended the throne in 1558, particularly due to societal expectations that a woman could not effectively govern, a belief stemming from historical precedents and the experiences of previous queens like Mary I.
- Her relationship with Parliament was crucial; she attended only important sessions, wielded significant influence, and could decide when Parliament met, with 434 laws passed during her reign, primarily concerning taxation, as Parliament met an average of 13 times over 29 years without convening at all in some years.
- Elizabeth maintained control over Parliament by using her strong personality to charm and intimidate members, controlling discussions through the Speaker, and imprisoning dissenting MPs, such as Peter Wentworth, who advocated for free speech.
- The issue of monopolies, where Elizabeth sold exclusive trading rights, led to opposition from Parliament, particularly when the Earl of Essex lost his monopoly on sweet wines due to his rebellion, highlighting the economic stakes involved for the gentry.
- Elizabeth's marriage and succession were contentious topics; she was expected to marry to secure an heir but chose not to, fearing loss of authority and the risks associated with childbirth, as exemplified by her father's tumultuous marital history.
- Potential suitors included King Philip II of Spain, Robert Dudley, and Francis, Duke of Anjou, but political and personal considerations, including the risk of alienating her council and the religious implications of marrying a Catholic, led her to remain single.
- The succession crisis was exacerbated by Elizabeth's lack of heirs, with major claims to the throne from Mary, Queen of Scots, and the Suffolk claim, creating tension and uncertainty about the future of the monarchy.
- In 1562, Elizabeth nearly died of smallpox, raising concerns about the stability of the throne and the potential for a chaotic succession, particularly with Mary, Queen of Scots, posing a significant threat during her time in England from 1568 to 1587.
- The eventual resolution of the succession came with James VI of Scotland becoming James I of England in 1603, facilitated by Robert Cecil's planning, which ensured a smooth transition despite the earlier uncertainties surrounding Elizabeth's reign.
- By the end of her rule, Elizabeth was perceived as declining due to her age, which contrasted with the earlier vibrancy of her reign, leading to questions about her legacy and the future of the monarchy in England.
14:14
Elizabeth I's Decline and Essex's Rebellion
- The 1590s marked a period of decline for Queen Elizabeth I, following the costly defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588, which led to economic troubles, poor harvests, rising food prices, and increased poverty and crime in England, alongside the deaths of key ministers like Robert Dudley and William Cecil, who died in 1598.
- Robert Devereux, the Earl of Essex, appointed to the Privy Council in 1593, was a young, ambitious, and tempestuous figure born in 1565, who sought to become Elizabeth's main advisor but made several mistakes, including disrespecting her, which ultimately led to his downfall.
- Robert Cecil, son of Lord Burley, became a key political figure after joining the Privy Council in 1591, trained in politics and espionage, and played a significant role in negotiating the succession of James I and in the uncovering of the Gunpowder Plot in 1605.
- Essex's rebellion in 1601 was fueled by his anger over being sidelined by Elizabeth in favor of Cecil; he gathered 300 supporters, attempted to seize the queen, and used a performance of Shakespeare's "Richard II" to signal his intentions, but the rebellion was poorly executed and lasted only 12 hours.
- The rebellion ended with Essex's arrest and execution for treason on February 25, 1601, just two and a half weeks after the failed uprising, highlighting both the challenges Elizabeth faced and her ability to maintain control over England despite the threats to her authority.
