Review of Early Elizabethan England, 1558-88

A set of flashcards covering key events, figures, challenges, and societal changes in Early Elizabethan England, useful for exam preparation.

What was the Throckmorton Plot of 1583?

A plot by the French Duke of Guise to invade England, overthrow Elizabeth I, and make England Catholic, with support from Philip II of Spain and the Pope.

What was the significance of the Babington Plot of 1586?

It led to the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots, and intensified the persecution of Catholics in England.

Who was Francis Walsingham?

Elizabeth I's Secretary of State and 'spy master', known for using a network of spies and informants to uncover plots against Elizabeth.

Why was Mary, Queen of Scots executed in 1587?

Walsingham's evidence showed her involvement in the Babington Plot and her claim to the throne threatened England's security.

What led to the rivalry between England and Spain during Elizabeth's reign?

Political and religious differences, with Spain as a Catholic nation and England as Protestant, along with commercial competition over trade routes.

What actions did Elizabeth take against Spain during the conflicts?

She secretly funded Dutch Protestant rebels and employed English privateers to attack Spanish ships.

What was the outcome of the Spanish Armada in 1588?

The failure of the Armada enhanced Elizabeth's authority and marked the beginning of Spain's gradual decline.

What issues contributed to the increase in poverty in Elizabethan England?

Population growth, bad harvests, enclosure of land, the growth of sheep farming, and economic recessions.

What was the purpose of the Elizabethan Religious Settlement in 1559?

To establish a religious form that would be acceptable to both Catholics and Protestants in England.

What were the key features of the Elizabethan education system?

Only a small percentage of the population could read and write, with emphasis on schooling for boys, while girls had limited access to formal education.

Why did attempts to colonize Virginia fail?

Inadequate exploration, lack of food supplies, poor leadership, and strained relations with Native Americans contributed to the failures.

What was the Crucifix Controversy?

Puritan refusal to display crucifixes in churches, leading to tension between them and Elizabeth's policies.

What role did Francis Drake play in the conflict with Spain?

He was an English sea captain who raided Spanish ships and colonies, including the attack on the Spanish navy at Cadiz.

What was the goal of the Ridolfi Plot in 1571?

To murder Elizabeth, start a Spanish invasion, and place Mary, Queen of Scots on the English throne.

What was the Treaty of Nonsuch of 1585?

An agreement where England committed to sending troops to support the Dutch Protestant rebels against Spanish rule.

What characterized the social hierarchy in Elizabethan England?

It ranged from the nobility at the top to the working poor and beggars at the bottom, with specific roles and responsibilities at each level.

What changes occurred in Elizabethan society regarding education?

An increase in demand for literacy due to trade growth and Protestantism, leading to the growth of grammar schools and the availability of scholarships.

What were the social attitudes towards poverty in Elizabethan England?

Poverty was often viewed as a moral failing, with the poor seen as undeserving of assistance, while the deserving poor were sometimes given aid.

What was the impact of enclosure on rural communities in Elizabethan England?

Enclosure led to displacement of peasant farmers, increased unemployment, and contributed to rising poverty.

What role did the Poor Law of 1601 play in Elizabethan society?

It established a system of poor relief, providing support for the needy and marking the start of organized welfare in England.

How did Elizabeth I's monarchial style impact her reign?

Elizabeth adopted a style of ruling that emphasized her status as a monarch while navigating the political landscape with caution and diplomacy.

What was the significance of the Acts of Supremacy and Uniformity?

These acts established Elizabeth as the supreme governor of the Church of England and enforced a uniform religious practice.

What was the nature of gender roles in Elizabethan England?

Gender roles were strict, with women primarily expected to manage the household and support their husbands, having limited rights in public life.

How did theaters influence Elizabethan culture?

Theaters became centers for social interaction and cultural expression, with performances reflecting contemporary issues and values.

What were the outcomes of the English Civil War within the context of Elizabethan policies?

Elizabeth's policies laid groundwork for future conflicts, with unresolved issues around governance, religion, and royal authority leading to civil strife.

What strategies did Elizabeth I employ in her foreign policy?

Elizabeth balanced power by forming alliances, engaging in strategic marriages, and promoting Protestantism abroad to counter Catholic influence.

What were the consequences of the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots for Elizabeth I?

Her execution strengthened Elizabeth's position but also led to increased hostility from Catholic factions and foreign intervention.

What was the impact of the Spanish Armada's defeat on English naval power?

The defeat established England as a major naval power and deterred future invasions by Spain.

What role did the Church of England play in Elizabethan society?

The Church was central to public life, shaping moral values, community activities, and had significant influence over state matters.

How did Elizabeth I's use of portraiture influence public perception?

Elizabeth I used portraits to project an image of power, virginity, and divinity, reinforcing her authority and the stability of her reign.

What economic changes occurred during Elizabethan England?

The period saw the rise of a merchant class, expansion in trade, and increased economic competition, particularly with Spain.

How did the Elizabethan Religious Settlement address the issue of religious conflicts?

It sought to create a middle ground, allowing for a Protestant framework while attempting to appease Catholic sentiments.

What was the significance of the East India Company established in 1600?

It marked the beginning of British overseas territorial expansion and the establishment of trade networks in Asia.

How did exploration impact English society during Elizabeth's reign?

Exploration expanded England's influence, increased wealth through trade, and stimulated interest in the world beyond Europe.

What literary developments occurred during the Elizabethan era?

The period is marked by significant contributions from playwrights like Shakespeare and Marlowe, promoting English drama and poetry.

What was the significance of the Act of Uniformity 1559?

It enforced the use of the Book of Common Prayer in English churches, assisting in the establishment of Protestant worship across England.

How did the cultural environment of Elizabethan England foster the arts?

A patronage system evolved with wealthy nobles supporting artists and playwrights, making London a

What was the significance of the Acts of Supremacy and Uniformity?

These acts established Elizabeth as the supreme governor of the Church of England and enforced a uniform religious practice.

What was the nature of gender roles in Elizabethan England?

Gender roles were strict, with women primarily expected to manage the household and support their husbands, having limited rights in public life.

How did theaters influence Elizabethan culture?

Theaters became centers for social interaction and cultural expression, with performances reflecting contemporary issues and values.

What were the outcomes of the English Civil War within the context of Elizabethan policies?

Elizabeth's policies laid groundwork for future conflicts, with unresolved issues around governance, religion, and royal authority leading to civil strife.

What strategies did Elizabeth I employ in her foreign policy?

Elizabeth balanced power by forming alliances, engaging in strategic marriages, and promoting Protestantism abroad to counter Catholic influence.

What were the consequences of the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots for Elizabeth I?

Her execution strengthened Elizabeth's position but also led to increased hostility from Catholic factions and foreign intervention.

What was the impact of the Spanish Armada's defeat on English naval power?

The defeat established England as a major naval power and deterred future invasions by Spain.

What role did the Church of England play in Elizabethan society?

The Church was central to public life, shaping moral values, community activities, and had significant influence over state matters.

How did Elizabeth I's use of portraiture influence public perception?

Elizabeth I used portraits to project an image of power, virginity, and divinity, reinforcing her authority and the stability of her reign.

What economic changes occurred during Elizabethan England?

The period saw the rise of a merchant class, expansion in trade, and increased economic competition, particularly with Spain.