Mary I's Foreign Policy and Spanish Marriage

Mary I's foreign policy was deeply intertwined with her religious convictions and her desire to restore Catholicism in England. Her approach to international relations and her marriage to Philip of Spain had far-reaching consequences for the nation.

Highlight: Mary I's foreign policy was strongly influenced by her commitment to restoring papal authority in England.

The restoration of papal power was a key objective for Mary, but it faced significant challenges. Many believed that the Pope would demand the return of church lands, which caused concern among Catholic landowners. This resistance forced Mary to accept a compromise on this issue.

Vocabulary: Papacy - The system of church government led by the Pope.

Mary's marriage to Philip of Spain was a pivotal moment in her reign. At 37 years old, Mary was nearing the end of her childbearing years, which made the marriage primarily a political alliance in the eyes of her government. However, it's important to note that Mary did have genuine affection for Philip.

Example: The Spanish Marriage in July 1554 marked a significant shift in England's foreign alliances, reviving the Treaty of Medina del Campo from 1489.

The marriage treaty included several key terms:

1. Philip was crowned king, but Mary retained all governing power.
2. England was not to be involved in Spanish wars.
3. Philip's status as king was limited to Mary's lifetime.

These conditions were designed to prevent Philip from ruling England directly, but they did not quell anti-Spanish sentiment entirely, as evidenced by the Wyatt Rebellion in 1554.

Definition: Wyatt Rebellion - An uprising in 1554 against Mary I's plan to marry Philip of Spain, led by Thomas Wyatt the Younger.

Mary's foreign policy also involved England in conflict with France. In 1557, England declared war on France following a French-led landing in Scarborough. This conflict put Mary in the unusual position of being at war with the Papacy, as Pope Paul IV had sided with France against Spain.

Highlight: The loss of Calais in January 1558 was a significant diplomatic blow to England, as it had been considered English territory for centuries and provided crucial access to mainland Europe.

Mary's reign also saw important naval and militia reforms. Six new ships were built, and many others were repaired. The Crown allocated £14,000 for peacetime naval expenses, although this was later reduced by Elizabeth I. Mary also reformed the process of raising troops through two Acts of Parliament.

Quote: "These reformations allowed Elizabeth to beat the Spanish Armada."

This statement highlights the long-term impact of Mary's military reforms, which laid the groundwork for England's future naval successes under Elizabeth I's reign.