James Religion section 1: Aims and ideologies

History

What were James I’s main religious priorities on becoming king in 1603?

To maintain religious unity and avoid civil conflict. He wanted to uphold the Elizabethan Settlement (1559), avoid persecution, and present himself as a “Rex Pacificus” — a peacemaker king.

How did James’s background influence his religious views?

Raised as a Presbyterian in Scotland, James disliked the disorder of the Scottish Kirk and preferred the hierarchical Anglican model with bishops, as it supported royal authority.

What was James’s guiding principle in church-state relations?

His maxim: “No bishop, no king.”
→ This meant that undermining bishops threatened monarchical authority.

How did James see his role in religious matters?

He believed in royal supremacy over the Church — the monarch as God’s lieutenant on Earth — but avoided being drawn into theological disputes.

Historian View:

• Conrad Russell: James was “more interested in control than in creed.”