The Early Reign of Charles I (1625-29) - Foreign Policy

Following the failed Spanish match towards the end of James’ reign, what did Charles and Buckingham do?

They attempted to set up an anti-Spanish front in 1625, aiming to forced the Hapsburgs to restore Palatinate to Charles’ brother-in-law.

What did their anti-Spanish policy include?

• An alliance with Christian IV of Denmark and the Dutch who attacked Catholic Hapsburgs in North Germany.

• An English army of 6,000 men to be provided for the German Protestant mercenary commander.

• A sea war against Spain to cut off its supplies of gold and silver from South America.

Was their policy successful?

No.

• Christian IV of Denmark invaded North Germany but was defeated by General Wallenstein.

• The English troops had no training or resources, and 4,000 men died without even going into battle.

• Charles and Buckingham attempted to attack one of the main Spanish ports, Cadiz, but discipline broke down after the troops found a wine store ashore.

Who did Charles marry in 1625?

Henrietta Maria, a French Catholic princess.

Why did Charles and Henrietta Maria marry?

Charles and Buckingham felt their would be diplomatic advantages as she would bring a marriage dowry of £240,000, helping Charles to finance the war, as well as toleration towards English Roman Catholics which caused some speculation.

What happened on the 1625 Cadiz expedition?

Buckingham and his men failed to capture the Spanish fleet transporting gold from its South American colonies.

What happened on the La Rochelle expedition of 1627?

Buckingham’s men landed on the Ile de Re, an island just off La Rochelle, failing as their scaling ladders were too short. Of the 7833 soldiers that went with Buckingham, only 2989 returned.