Essex’s rebellion in 1601

Who was Essex?

Robert Devereux was the Earl of Essex

How close was Essex to the Queen?

He was one of her Privy Councillors but repeatedly had arguments with the Queen due to his short temper (although she always forgave him after)

On one occasion, he married Francis Walsingham’s daughter in secret and when Elizabeth found out, he shouted at her then turned his back on her so she slapped him and he half drew his sword in response. This was a grave offence so Elizabeth placed him under house arrest but later forgave him

What was the offence in marrying in secret?

He should have asked Elizabeth for her permission

What did Essex do in Ireland?

He became Lord Lieutenant in Ireland and made a truce with the Irish rebels against Elizabeth’s orders. He also knighted some of his army leaders without Elizabeth’s permission

What happened after Essex returned from Ireland?

He burst into Elizabeth’s room while she was without her wig, so Elizabeth was deeply annoyed and didn’t renew his monopoly

What was the consequence of losing his monopoly?

Esses lost his job, was banned from court and got into debt

When was the Essex rebellion?

1601

Information about Robert Devereux

Born in 1565 as the son of Elizabeth’s cousin and stepson of Robert Dudley. He studied at Cambridge University and was popular with most people including the Queen

What was Robert Devereux’s qualities?

He was young, eloquent, good looking, but also arrogant, ambitious and had a short temper

What was Essex’s monopoly?

On sweet wine

What was his role in court?

He was part of the Privy Council from 1593 and was knowledgeable about foreign affairs - however he hated William Cecil

What happened during the Essex Rebellion?

He gathered 200 supporters and kidnapped four Privy Councillors when they came to check on him. Cecil said that Essex was a traitor and Elizabeth believed him due to Essex’s earlier actions

Why did many supporters desert him?

Once they were offered a pardon so wouldn’t face any consequences for their actions and they also freed the hostages

What happened to Essex?

He was put on trial for treason where he informed on his sister and other members of the rebellion. Then he was executed in private

How significantly did Elizabeth lose power?

The Essex Rebellion in 1601 can be seen as an example of Elizabeth’s most trusted advisers falling short and leaving the Queen vulnerable - many of the most important people around her had died soon before the end of her reign so she was left feeling isolated and alone