Elizabeth I (1558 – 1603)

The Virgin Queen

 Reign know as the GOLDEN AGE (stability, religious tolerance, victory,

entertainment/Shakespeare)
 25 years old when became Queen
 Religion Protestant - Tolerant approach
 Regarded marriage as dangerous (thought foreign husband would subject
England to foreign rule and English husband cause disputes)

The Royal Progress

 Tours around the country -> to show her power and maintain unity and peace

Danger from Scotland

 Mary Queen of Scots had a claim to the English throne because she was the
great-granddaughter of Henry VII
 She came to England after being forced to abdicate
 Mary was executed in 1587

Exploring the Sea

 Elizabeth encouraged sea exploration to look for treasure and slaves (Sir
Walter Raleigh – S America, Sir John Hawkins – Africa Slaves) Sir Francis
Drake – first round the world Englishman

The Defeat of the Spanish Armada

 Spain (1586) preparing to invade Britain – Philip II of Spain wanted to return
England to Catholic Religion
 Spain was defeated (English had faster ships, better arms, could attack with
cannons – Armada damaged by storms in North Sea).
 Elizabeth died in 1603 (requested James, son of Mary Queen of Scots to
succeed her)
 Very popular Queen (created positive self image, defender of the nation,
preserved peace, brought unity and glory to England).

Summary Performer Heritage P 84-85