Untitled Flashcard Set

What remained largely stable in Tudor society despite rebellions?

The structure of Tudor society.

What are the main classes in Tudor society hierarchy?

Monarch, Nobility, Gentry, Lower classes.

What limited social mobility in Tudor society?

The clear hierarchy and class structures.

What were women's roles in Tudor society primarily limited to?

Marriage.

What allowed for social mobility in Tudor society?

Land ownership, professions (law, church), and trade.

Can wealth guarantee social status in Tudor society?

No, wealth does not equal status (e.g. merchants may be rich but lower status).

What was the size of the nobility in Tudor society?

About 50 peers throughout the period.

What percentage of land did nobility own in Tudor society?

Approximately 10%.

What did Henry VIII do regarding nobility?

Created new nobles for political reasons.

How did Elizabeth I approach the creation of new peerages?

Preferred limiting new peerages.

What percentage of the population did the gentry represent?

About 1% (around 4,500 families).

What linked the growth of the gentry in Tudor society?

The dissolution of monasteries leading to land redistribution.

How did the number of knights change in Tudor society?

Increased from 300 to 600.

What cultural changes did the gentry experience during the Tudor period?

They became increasingly educated and influenced by the printing press.

What was a significant social issue faced by the lower classes?

Declining living standards.

What percentage of the population lived at or near subsistence in Tudor times?

Approximately 50%.

What were some key problems faced by lower classes?

Food shortages, especially after bad harvests, and poverty worsened.

What opportunities arose for the lower classes during the Tudor period?

Growth in mining and textiles led to geographical mobility.

What was the population in England around the year 1603?

About 4 million.

What was one of the main causes of population growth in Tudor England?

Fewer epidemics.

What were some effects of population growth?

Labour surplus leading to low wages and increased food demand causing higher prices.

What was the inflation rate in Tudor society over the century?

Prices rose by approximately 400%.

What was a significant cause of inflation during this period?

Population growth leading to increased demand for food.

What impact did debasement of coinage have on inflation?

Led to an increase in prices.

What was the government’s initial response to poverty in Tudor society?

Weak and focused on punishment rather than support.

What categories were created to distinguish the poor in Tudor society?

Impotent poor, Idle poor, and recognition of genuinely unemployed.

What was established by the 1572 Poor Relief Act?

Compulsory local taxation for the poor and harsh punishment for vagabonds.

What was significant about the 1597 and 1601 Poor Laws?

They formalized a system of poor relief including poor rates and overseers.

What is the significance of the Elizabethan Poor Laws?

They established the first national system of poor relief.

Was there a consensus among historians about a 'Mid-Tudor Crisis'?

Some say yes (due to crises), others believe it was exaggerated.

What does the overall judgement suggest about Tudor society's stability?

Social structure remained stable, and the government maintained control despite pressures.