1547 and edwards succession

What happened in 1547?

Henry died and Edward claimed the throne

What examples are there that there was instability caused from Henry’s reign?

Left social and economic problems e.g. debasement of the coin which caused inflation and land being used for enclosure, and additionally he broke from papacy meaning religous change e.g. bible in English and dissolved the monasteries

When was the third succession act passed?

By Henry in 1543

How does the third succession act suggest stability of the monarchy?

(Edward>mary>elizabeth) shows stability as Edward was the legitamite ruler and this also avoids disputes over successor since Edward was a minority and might not produce an heir

Why did Edward’s background cause instability?

His mother was Jane Seymour (Henry’s second marriage) meaning catholics didnt accept the marriage and his continuity of the Protestant reformation would cause religous unrest and divisions

When was the regency council created?

1547

How did the regency council give stability to the monarchy?

Helped run government since Edward was only a minor, and Henry had intended for it to be balanced by being composed of 16 men- a mix of reformists and conservatives

What happened upon the kings death regarding the regency council?

Because of paget and Denny, his death was kept quite and changes were made to the dry stamp- allowing regency council to be dominated by the reformists (instability)

Who led the reformist and conservative parts of the council?

Reformists= Somerset conservatives= Norfolk and gardiner (later removed when reformists dominated)

Why does reformists dominating show instability?

Suggests there isn’t a balanced opinion when running the gov, highlighting the power struggles within the government and showing the factional issues

How could edwards age arguably not be a threat to stability of the monarchy?

There had been previous young monarchs who had successfully reigns or didnt experience conflict until later in their rule . E.g Henry vi was only 8 months old and he had a very powerful reign and even witnessed the victory of the war of the roses

How might Edward’s age/ minority create concerns about stability of the monarchy?

His imagine made the English monarchy appear weak since he wasn’t powerful or a strong military debt, additionally he would be unable to lead troops or resolve factional conflicts leading to inefficient governing and other countries potentially exploiting their weakness