Elizabeth's Accession and Early Challenges
Elizabeth I ascended to the English throne in 1558, inheriting a country facing significant challenges. As a Protestant queen succeeding her Catholic half-sister Mary I, Elizabeth had to navigate complex religious and political landscapes.
Highlight: Elizabeth inherited a massive debt of £300,000 and a country at war with France when she became queen in 1558.
The new queen faced several key issues:
- Financial troubles, including substantial war debts
- Religious divisions between Catholics and Protestants
- Threats from foreign powers, especially France
- Questions about her legitimacy as a female ruler
Elizabeth's personal background shaped her approach to governance:
- She was cautious due to witnessing political intrigue throughout her life
- Her Protestant upbringing influenced her religious policies
- She was well-educated and cultivated an image as the "Virgin Queen"
Vocabulary: Privy Council - A small group of advisors who met regularly with the queen to offer counsel on matters of state.
Elizabeth established her government by appointing 19 people to her Privy Council. She relied on this group of leading nobles for advice and to help run the country. The royal court became the center of political power during Elizabeth's reign.
Definition: Gentry - The class below nobles, including knights and large landowners who often served as local judges and sheriffs.
The English social structure under Elizabeth included:
- Nobles - Dealt with crime, social unrest, and led armies
- Gentry - Helped govern locally and could vote in elections
- Yeomen - Owned their own land
- Tenant farmers - Rented land and assisted in local governance
This system helped Elizabeth maintain control and govern effectively across England.