SECTION 4: CATHOLICS AND THE GUNPOWDER PLOT

What was James’s initial attitude to Catholics?

Hopeful of easing persecution and reconciling Catholics, especially for diplomatic peace with Spain.

Why did the Gunpowder Plot (1605) change this?

It revealed Catholic extremism and destroyed public trust. The attempt to blow up Parliament on 5 November 1605 reinforced anti-Catholic paranoia.

What laws followed the Plot?

• Oath of Allegiance (1606) required Catholics to swear loyalty to the king over the pope.

• Recusancy fines increased for non-attendance at Anglican services.

Did James return to tolerance later?

Yes — during negotiations for the Spanish Match (1623), enforcement of penalties relaxed. This angered Protestants who saw it as betrayal.

Historian View:

• David Smith: James’s policy was “one of expedient balance rather than principle.”