The Early Reign of Charles I (1625-29) - Patronage

When did Buckingham become Chief Adviser to Charles?

In 1623, winning their friendship during the visit to Spain to secure the Spanish match.

Prior to his friendship with Charles, who was Buckingham close to?

James. Buckingham was introduced to James in 1613, was appointed as Cup-bearer to the King and knighted and made a Gentleman of the Bedchamber in 1615.

How did Buckingham’s political influence increase following the death of James?

Charles was a young and uncertain monarch which meant Buckingham was able to indulge in his own pride and ambition.

Where was Buckingham’s input most significant in Charles’ early reign?

In aggressive foreign policy that England could not afford.

What was the aim of Buckingham’s aggressive foreign policy?

To glorify himself and the King.

What happened in 1625?

The English fleet failed to take the Spanish port of Cadiz or capture the Spanish treasure fleet. More troops were lost at Cadiz because of a lack of food than because of enemy gunfire.

Why did the Cadiz Expedition fail?

Due to Buckingham’s lack of planning, failure to attend to detail and unrealistic expectations.

What was parliament’s response to the failed Cadiz Expedition?

They demanded that Buckingham was to be impeached as parliamentary subsidies had been used to fund the disastrous land expedition.

What did Charles do to prevent Buckingham being impeached?

Dissolved parliament.

What were the terms of Charles and Henrietta Maria’s marriage that Buckingham arranged in 1624?

That she would be able to practice her own Catholic religion, and that English ships would help to suppress a French Protestant rebellion in La Rochelle.

What was parliament’s reaction to this marriage agreement?

They were furious, and even more so when in 1626 Buckingham’s inept diplomacy led to war with France.

What was Buckingham’s role in this Anglo-French war?

In 1627, an expedition was sent to help the Protestants in La Rochelle, but this failed miserably because of inadequate planning.

What was parliament’s view on Buckingham by the end of 1627?

That his influence and Charles’ stubborn refusal to contain it was directly threatening his ability to govern properly.

When was Buckingham assassinated?

23rd August 1628, by John Felton.

How did the public respond to Buckingham’s assassination?

There were public celebrations, including bonfires.

How did Charles respond to Buckingham’s assassination?

He blamed parliament and its negative portrayal of Buckingham for the assassination. Charles withdrew even further from the public and listened to the advice of his French Catholic wife (which would later bring political consquences).