Success Challenges Monarchs- Absolute & Constitutional

Success Challenges Monarchs - Absolute & Constitutional

This study guide reviews key themes, events, and details surrounding monarchs within the context of their challenges and the formation of constitutional monarchy. The notes will delve into significant monarchs, relationships with Parliament, and critical historical events.

Elizabeth I

  • Exploration to the New World

    • Sir Francis Drake
    • Notable explorer and privateer during Elizabeth's reign, known for circumnavigating the globe.
    • Trade:
    • British East India Company:
      • A joint stock company established to foster trade between Britain and the East Indies, allowing multiple investors to share profits and risks.

  • Religious Conflicts

    • Act of Uniformity
    • Established the Church of England (Anglican Church) as the official religion, affirming Protestantism.
    • Elizabeth prioritized the loyalty of her subjects above religious affiliations and did not engage in religious persecution.

  • Mary Queen of Scots

    • Supported by Catholics in England and Scotland as the rightful heir to the English throne, creating tension between Catholics and Protestants.
    • Her execution angered King Philip II of Spain, leading to diplomatic fallout.

  • Marriage Question

    • Elizabeth I never married and bore no children, leaving no direct heir to the throne.
    • Upon her death, her cousin James Stuart ascended to the throne, becoming James I of England.

James I

  • Divine Right of Kings

    • James asserted that monarchs derive their authority directly from God and are not accountable to their subjects.

  • Struggles with Parliament

    • Refused to negotiate wisely with Parliament, further exacerbating tensions.
    • Conflict with Puritan members aiming for reforms in the Anglican Church led to increased religious tensions.
    • Economic issues arose when Parliament withheld funds to pay governmental debts, leading to financial strains.

Charles I

  • Petition of Right

    • Four key prohibitions imposed:
    1. No forced loans or taxes without Parliament's consent.
    2. No imprisonment without cause (habeas corpus).
    3. No housing of soldiers in private homes.
    4. No martial law in times of peace.

  • Consequences:

    • Refused to acknowledge the Petition of Rights, leading to ongoing conflict with Parliament.
    • Imprisoned dissenters and continued issues led to the English Civil War.

  • Public Execution

    • Charles I was beheaded in 1649 after being tried and convicted of treason, marking a pivotal moment in British history.

English Civil War

  • Causes & Outcome
    • Conflicts arose between the Roundheads (Puritans, led by Oliver Cromwell) and the Cavaliers (Royalists, consisting primarily of nobles and church officials).
    • The Roundheads ultimately triumphed, resulting in the execution of Charles I.
    • Oliver Cromwell emerged as a leading figure post-war, becoming a military dictator.

Oliver Cromwell

  • Profile

    • A Puritan who led the New Model Army against Charles I.
    • Disbanded Parliament after gaining power and became known as the Lord Protector.

  • Actions as Lord Protector

    • Implemented high taxes without Parliament’s consent.
    • Imprisoned individuals without trial and enforced strict social regulations (e.g., banning dancing and theatre).

Richard Cromwell

  • Succession
    • Succeeded his father Oliver Cromwell as Lord Protector in 1658.
    • Lack of effective leadership resulted in Parliament forcing him out in 1660.

Restoration

  • Charles II

    • His reign marked the restoration of the monarchy in England after Cromwell's rule.
    • Acted as a moderate leader and introduced the principle of habeas corpus, affirming the necessity of evidence for imprisonment.

  • Transition to Absolute Monarchy Problems

    • James II, who became king after Charles II, was openly Catholic leading to tensions with predominantly Protestant Parliament.
    • When conflicts arose, Parliament invited William and Mary to take the throne.

Glorious Revolution

  • William of Orange and Mary
    • This event, termed the Bloodless Revolution, culminated in the transfer of power without conflict.
    • Resulted in the passage of the English Bill of Rights:
    • Prohibited abuses of power by the monarch and established rights for Parliament, including restrictions on housing soldiers during times of peace or war.

Transition to Constitutional Monarchy

  • Formal establishment as a CONSTITUTIONAL MONARCHY
    • This shift secured significant power for Parliament and limited the powers of the monarch, laying the groundwork for modern democratic governance.