The Advantages of Elizabeth I Becoming Queen of England (Edexcel GCSE History)

Elizabeth did not inherit England in a good state in 1558. Issues involving the economy, religion and foreign threats created a challenging environment for Elizabeth. Many people in England believed she was not the legitimate queen of England. 

Elizabeth managed to overcome these challenges. A significant reason for Elizabeth's success was her character and strengths. She experienced many difficulties in her early childhood. Her father, Henry VIII, had disowned Elizabeth after the execution of her mother, Anne Boleyn. Henry VIII's sixth wife Catherine Parr mended Henry's and Elizabeth's relationship. Catherine Parr also taught Elizabeth the essential skills of the royal court. Her intelligence meant she understood how to rule England firmly but fairly. Her charisma and determination persuaded many subjects to support her reign. She developed into a strong ruler who wanted to resolve key issues in the country.

Key event 

How was this a strength for Elizabeth?

Henry VIII married his sixth wife, Catherine Parr

Catherine brought Elizabeth back to the royal court. She persuaded Henry to restore Elizabeth's legitimacy in the Act of Succession in 1543

Elizabeth became a courtier in the royal court

Elizabeth learnt the dangers of the royal court. She witnessed other courtiers spreading rumours to gain more influence with the monarch. She learnt that, as queen, she needed to control the court

Mary placed Elizabeth in the Tower of London in 1554. Mary's government accused Elizabeth of plotting against Mary's reign

Elizabeth learnt how unstable her position as queen was. She knew that she needed to react swiftly against plots on her life. The situation also highlighted the need to collect evidence of high treason. Mary's government persuaded Mary to let Elizabeth go. There was no evidence of Elizabeth's involvement in plots