Queen Mary I and Challenges of Female Rule

Questions and Answers

What event prompted widespread celebration in London on 3 August 1553?

The marriage of Mary to Philip

Mary's entrance into London (correct)

The end of Edward's reign

Mary's coronation as queen

What significant issue arose from Mary being a female monarch?

Her lack of political experience

Her inability to have children

Her difficulty in acquiring an heir

Her inability to lead an army in battle (correct)

What legislation did Parliament pass concerning Mary’s right to rule?

The Marriage Act

An Act validating her rule as equal to a man's (correct)

The Act of Settlement

The Act of Supremacy

Why was the marriage question considered significant for Mary?

Due to the legal status of husbands claiming dominion over their wives Signup and view all the answers

What did Mary's accession signal to many of her supporters?

The return to the old religion Signup and view all the answers

Which historical figure's experience highlighted the challenges for female rulers in England?

Empress Matilda Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of Henry VIII's legacy influenced concerns about Mary's reign?

His avoidance of leaving the crown to a daughter Signup and view all the answers

What was a common sentiment among citizens during Mary's arrival?

Relief at the return to rightful succession Signup and view all the answers

What was a major concern regarding Mary’s marriage to Philip of Spain?

It would elevate a nobleman and increase factionalism. Signup and view all the answers

Which faction of the Privy Council supported Mary’s marriage to Philip of Spain?

Paget's faction. Signup and view all the answers

What was one potential consequence of Mary marrying Edward Courtenay?

It would risk alienating other noble families. Signup and view all the answers

Why was Cardinal Reginald Pole an unlikely match for Mary?

He was a cardinal and thus not allowed to marry. Signup and view all the answers

What was a key term included in the marriage treaty between Mary and Philip?

Philip could not appoint Spanish officials. Signup and view all the answers

Who ultimately had a significant influence on Mary’s decision to marry Philip?

Her cousin, Charles V. Signup and view all the answers

What was the date on which Mary officially announced her intention to marry Philip?

27 October. Signup and view all the answers

What was the sentiment in England regarding a foreign marriage during Mary’s time?

It fueled anti-European xenophobia. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary reason for Mary wanting to marry Philip?

To ensure a strong heir for the throne. Signup and view all the answers

What was a critical reaction from the Privy Council regarding Mary’s marriage to Philip?

They were concerned about the implications for foreign influence. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Queen Mary's Accession

Mary entered London on 3 August 1553, greeted with celebration amidst decor, reflecting both joy for her rule and a desire for a return to Catholicism.
Citizens cheered the stability of the Tudor dynasty and adherence to the rightful succession, marking a shift from the previous regime.

Challenges of Female Rule

The concept of a female monarch was problematic; Salic Law in France barred women from succession, while England had no equivalent law but limited historical success with female rulers.
The only precedent was Empress Matilda, who was embroiled in a civil war and never crowned, emphasizing concerns regarding female governance.

Legislative Adjustments

Parliament passed an Act affirming Mary’s right to rule equally to a male monarch due to fears about her military capabilities and factional control.
Concerns about Mary marrying and her husband's dominion over her assets presented additional complications for her rule.

Marriage Considerations

Unmarried upon accession, Mary faced pressure to marry for political alliances.
Two main factions in the Privy Council debated her prospective marriage: Paget supported Philip of Spain, while Gardiner favored Edward Courtenay, the Earl of Devon.
A marriage to Philip posed risks of foreign influence, while Courtenay's selection could elevate a noble family and create factional tensions.

Personal Connections and Proposals

Mary had a strong bond with her cousin, Charles V, who favored her marriage to Philip for mutual political benefits against France.
Despite varied opinions, Mary pursued the marriage with Philip, working closely with the Imperial ambassador Simon Renard.

Treaty and Political Opposition

The marriage proposal was finalized by 10 October 1553, but faced resistance from the Privy Council and public, resulting in a petition against it.
A marriage treaty was negotiated to alleviate concerns, stating Philip had no independent power, couldn't appoint officials, and if Mary died childless, the throne would pass to Elizabeth.

Marriage Ceremony

The treaty was presented to the Privy Council on 7 December and ratified by Parliament in April 1554.
Mary and Philip were married on 25 June 1554, amidst ongoing concerns regarding the instability of a female-led regime and the impact of foreign influence.

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Description

Explore the significant events surrounding Queen Mary I's accession to the throne and the challenges she faced as a female monarch. This quiz delves into the societal attitudes towards female rulers, legislative adjustments made by Parliament, and the implications of her marriage plans. Test your knowledge on this pivotal moment in Tudor history.