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The Elizabethans overview - EdexcelGovernment and religion in Early Elizabethan era

The Elizabethan era in the 16th century was one of adventure, intrigue, personalities, plots and power struggles. At the centre was Elizabeth , 鈥楾he Virgin Queen鈥, who ruled England between 1558-1603.

Part of HistoryElizabeth I

Government and religion in the Early Elizabethan era

The key themes include:

  • government
  • religion
  • economy and society
  • law and order
  • foreign affairs

Government

Queen Elizabeth I was of England, meaning she had upmost authority and rule, compared to the monarchy today. She surrounded herself with a loyal group of advisers (called the ) to guide her.

Elizabeth tightly controlled and set the agenda of what it was allowed to discuss and pass laws about. However, during her reign Parliament did become more influential and was in conflict with Elizabeth over issues such as religion, marriage and her licences.

Religion

Portrait of King Henry VIII
King Henry VIII

In the 16th century England was divided by religion. The country had been a Roman Catholic country for nearly a thousand years until Henry VIII鈥檚 reign where, over a 20 year period, the country鈥檚 religion had changed three times, causing tension and divisions.

When Elizabeth ascended to the throne she changed the official religion to Protestantism, but also outlined a religious settlement that allowed some Catholic traditions to be practiced. Parliament helped by passing the and the .

Elizabeth鈥檚 tolerant 鈥榤iddle-way鈥 had broad support, but she did face threats and plots from Catholics and , with Mary, Queen of Scots becoming a figure head for Catholic plots, such as the Babington Plot in 1586.

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