Marriage and the succession

Why was Elizabeth expected to marry?

It could make England more stable and hopefully provide heirs to the throne

Did Elizabeth marry?

No; she said that she was married to England, and was called the Virgin Queen - which she used as propaganda to promote her status and power within the country, as it highlighted her instincts to care for her country first

What were advantages to being married?

Elizabeth maintained total control over English affairs, such as the government and religion, she encouraged good foreign relations between most countries, making her a strong negotiator.

What were advantages of marriage? (Disadvantages of not being married)

There was uncertainty over the inheritance of the throne, leading to plots and attacks aimed at overthrowing Elizabeth (it is likely that she wouldn’t have faced so many if she had had a child). Elizabeth’s unmarried status kept MPs and Privy Councillors frustrated at the Queen because it kept the country vulnerable. Marriage could also unite religious divides at the time

Who were Elizabeth’s suitors?

Robert Dudley, Philip King of Spain, Archduke Charles of Austria and Francis Duke of Anjou and Alencon

Who was Robert Dudley?

A Privy Councillor, a member of Elizabeth’s court, Earl of Leicester, and the Master of the Horse. He was also a radical Puritan and a childhood friend of the queen

What does Master of the Horse mean?

He is responsible for Elizabeth’s safety

Why couldn’t Dudley marry Elizabeth?

He was already married, but then his wife died under suspicious circumstances, casting some doubt on whether Dudley killed his wife in order to marry Elizabeth.

Who was Francis Duke of Anjou and Alencon?

Heir to the French throne and a valuable political ally

What were advantages of marrying Francis Duke of Anjou and Alencon?

Elizabeth could gain influence over French policy in the Netherlands

Why didn’t Elizabeth marry Francis?

He died in 1584, despite negotiations for nearly a decade

Who was Philip King of Spain?

One of the most powerful men in the world, who was previously married to Mary I but had spent very little time in England

What were advantages to marrying Philip?

He was king of Spain, which was extremely wealthy and powerful due to control over South America through colonies, and marriage would have caused a valuable political alliance

What were the disadvantages of marrying Philip?

He was a Catholic, so opposed Elizabeth’s religion of Protestantism - this caused MPs to be wary of a potential match through the fear that marriage would cause religious unsettlement, and there would also be a foreign influence in the government

Who was Archduke Charles?

An Austrian who considered marrying Elizabeth in 1567

Why didn’t Elizabeth marry Archduke Charles?

He was a Catholic, so ultimately no match was made