Elizabethan Government

GCSE, edexel history, Elizabeth 1st topic

Who has power in modern Britain?

The monarch (the Queen) and parliament (Politicians), but the role of the monarch is largely ceremonial.

What was the structure of Elizabethan government?

The structure included the Queen, Royal Court, Privy Council, Lords Lieutenant, Justices of the Peace, Parliament, Central government, and Local government.

What is the Royal Prerogative in Elizabethan times?

The monarch had the power to make laws without consulting parliament and could overrule or shut down parliament.

Who were the courtiers in the Royal Court?

Courtiers were members of the nobility or gentry who advised and entertained the monarch.

What was the role of the Privy Council during Elizabethan times?

The Privy Council effectively ran the government of England and was chosen from amongst the Royal Court.

Who was William Cecil?

William Cecil was an important privy councilor who eventually became Secretary of State and was raised to the nobility.

What was the composition of the Elizabethan Parliament?

The Parliament consisted of the House of Lords and the House of Commons, with the House of Lords being more influential.

How were members of the House of Commons elected in Elizabethan England?

Elections were held but only some of the gentry and nobility could vote.

What was the role of the Elizabethan Parliament?

The role was to advise the monarch.

How did local government function in Elizabethan England?

England was divided into counties with one Lord Lieutenant, Justices of the Peace, parish constables, and sheriffs overseeing local enforcement.

What is the role of the Lord Lieutenant?

The Lord Lieutenant was chosen by the monarch from the nobility to oversee local law enforcement and control the local militia.

How many Justices of the Peace were there per county in Elizabethan England?

There were 30-60 Justices of the Peace per county.

What was the status of Justices of the Peace in their communities?

Justices of the Peace had great status in the community as they heard county court cases.

What was required to attend the Royal Court?

Attendance at court required the monarch’s permission, signifying importance.

What meetings were held by the Privy Council?

The Privy Council met at least three times a week and meetings were often presided over by the monarch.

From which social class did members of the Privy Council typically come?

Members were typically chosen from the Royal Court and were often from the gentry.

What did the Royal Court symbolize in Elizabethan times?

The Royal Court symbolized the power and influence of the monarchy, where key advisors and nobles interacted with the monarch.

What was the significance of the phrase 'rule by divine right' in Elizabethan governance?

It indicated that the monarch's word was considered law without the need for parliamentary approval.

How could a monarch in Elizabethan times risk losing power?

A monarch risked being replaced by not following the instructions of parliament.

What type of people were privy court members?

Privy councilors were typically key advisors, friends, or servants from the nobility and gentry.