The Effectiveness of the Tudor Consolidation of Power

Henry VII’s Approach towards Consolidation of Power

Marriage alliances: Henry VII strengthened his claim to the throne by marrying Elizabeth of York, unifying the Houses of Lancaster and York. This marriage also helped neutralise potential threats from Yorkist claimants.
Diplomacy: He pursued peaceful foreign policies with major powers ensuring they did not support usurpers. Treaties such as Intercursus Magnus improved trade relations and overall standing with European countries.
Bonds and recognisances: He enforced good behaviour among the nobles by demanding bonds and recognisances, which were essentially financial guarantees. Failure to obey would mean financial penalties, helping to keep potential threats on a leash.
Controlled patronage: Patronage, the practice of bestowing titles and land, was used in a controlled and careful way to secure loyalty while not creating overly powerful subjects.
Council Learned in Law: This council helped in collection of feudal dues and was instrumental in asserting the king’s financial supremacy and control over the nobility.

Henry VIII’s Consolidation of Power

The Act of Supremacy (1534): Henry VIII broke from the Catholic Church and declared himself the ‘Supreme Head of the Church of England’. This move consolidated his power by combining religious and secular authority.
Dissolution of the Monasteries: This resulted in the transfer of vast wealth and land from the church to the crown, strengthening the king’s financial and territorial control.
Use of parliament: Henry VIII effectively utilised Parliament to pass laws that strengthened his position, thereby legalising his actions and decisions.
Royal Progresses: These were tours the king took around the country, reinforcing his visibility, magnificence, and approachability, while keeping the nobility in check.

Elizabeth I’s Approach towards Consolidation of Power

Religious Settlement (1559): The Act of Supremacy made Elizabeth ‘Supreme Governor’ and the Act of Uniformity established a form of worship to unite Catholic and Protestant factions, maintaining stability in the realm.
Council and Court: Elizabeth used the council effectively for advice and administration, kept court attendance high to keep an eye on potential dissension, and practised controlled patronage.
Use of Propaganda: She presented herself as the ‘Virgin Queen’ marrying her kingdom, promoting allegiance and reducing threats to her power.
Successful Manipulation of Parliament: Despite various conflicts, Elizabeth was successful in controlling Parliament and gained its approval for necessary financial and political measures.