The Reign of Elizabeth I, 1558–1603

Contextual Background

The reign of Elizabeth I was a period of growth, consolidation, and conflict within England. As the daughter of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, she took the throne after the unstable reigns of her half-siblings, Edward VI and Mary I.
Her reign began amidst religious controversy, as her father had broken from the Roman Catholic Church to establish the Church of England, a move consolidated under her reign.
By successfully navigating a series of political and diplomatic challenges, Elizabeth managed to rule for 45 years – a period known as the Elizabethan Era.

Key Events of the Elizabethan Era

Religious Settlement of 1559: This Act aimed to unite her subjects under the Church of England, accepting moderate Protestant doctrine while maintaining many traditional Catholic rituals.
Spanish Armada, 1588: The failed invasion of England by the Spanish Armada marked a significant victory and turning point, solidifying England’s naval power and starting to establish the country as a global power.
Cultural Flourishing: The Elizabethan era—also known as The English Renaissance—saw unprecedented growth in the arts, most notably dramatic arts with figures like Shakespeare and Marlowe.

Consequences and Impact

Establishment of Protestant England: The Elizabethan settlement established a distinctly English form of Protestantism, a major shift away from Catholic doctrinal dominance which has persisted within England to this day.
Boom of Cultural Activities: The era witnessed immense growth in literature, music, and the visual arts, marking a golden age in English history. Works produced during this time, especially the plays of William Shakespeare, have had a lasting impact on English culture and language.
Colonial Expansion: The defeat of the Spanish Armada and the growth of naval power led to the expansion of English exploration and colonialism, marking the first steps towards the creation of the British Empire.

Key Figures

Elizabeth I: Her skilful leadership and manipulation of courtship and marriage proposals as a political tool enabled her to stay in power, maintain peace at home, and build England’s strength abroad.
Sir Francis Drake: Noted as one of the most famous seamen of the Elizabethan age, he was instrumental in England’s defence against the Spanish Armada, and was the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe.
William Cecil, Lord Burghley: As Elizabeth’s most trusted advisor, he significantly contributed to fiscal and economic reforms.
William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe: These playwrights of the Elizabethan era have had a continuing influence over English literature and theatre; their plays are still performed and studied globally.