Similarity and Difference (1485-1603)

Monarchs’ Handling of Rebellion and Protest (1485-1603)

Henry VII’s pre-emptive approach: Henry VII effectively utilised bonds and recognisances to control the nobility and discourage potential rebellion. He adopted a pre-emptive approach to rebellion, using financial penalties as a successful deterrent.
Henry VIII’s reactive measures: Henry VIII was more inclined to use reactive measures, such as force, to subdue rebels. An example is the Pilgrimage of Grace in 1536, the largest of all Tudor rebellions, which was harshly crushed.
Elizabeth I’s negotiation skills: Elizabeth I was known for her ability to skilfully negotiate and manage rebellious situations, gaining her the epithet of ‘Good Queen Bess’ among commoners.

Rich and Poor: The Extent of the Divide (1485-1603)

Wealth disparity: In Tudor England, there was a marked disparity in wealth. The nobility represented a small percentage of the populace but owned a considerable proportion of the land and wealth. Meanwhile, poverty was a lived reality for many.
Pauper laws under Henry VIII and Edward VI: Both Henry VIII and Edward VI implemented poor laws to assist the needy, including the provision of ‘outdoor relief’ for those unable to work and the establishment of workhouses for others.
Elizabethan Poor Law (1601): Under Elizabeth I, the Poor Law was passed, marking a systematic and nationwide attempt to address poverty. The law provided relief to the ‘deserving’ poor while punishing ‘vagrants’.

The Role of Church and Religion (1485-1603)

Transition from Catholicism to Protestantism: The period saw England’s transition from Catholicism to Protestantism, starting with Henry VIII’s break from Rome and the establishment of the Church of England.
Religious conflicts: The change in the state religion led to widespread discontent and opposition, resulting in several rebellions and protests across England and Wales, such as the Western Rebellion and the Northern Rebellion.
Religious settlement under Elizabeth I: Elizabeth sought a middle path (via vide media) to address religious conflicts. The 1559 ‘Elizabethan religious settlement’ was a compromise that aimed at appeasing both Catholics and Protestants.

Economic Changes and Challenges (1485-1603)

Inflation and debasement of currency: During Henry VIII’s reign, significant inflation occurred due to the debasement of the currency, causing economic hardships, especially for the lower classes.
Price Revolution: The 16th century experienced the ‘Price Revolution’ with a dramatic rise in prices, driven by population growth and inflation, leading to increasing poverty and financial struggles.
Enclosure movement and land disputes: Throughout this period, the enclosure of common lands for sheep farming by the gentry led to significant grievances among the peasantry, leading to protests and rebellions like Kett’s Rebellion in 1549.