1558-1564

• Treaty of Cateau-Cambresis - 1559
• Explanation of the treaty of Cateau-Cambresis in 1559

  * Elizabeth inherited conflict with France

  * Crown finances were weak, England had lost Calais

  * Peace treaty concluded April 1559, France to return Calais for 8 years and would be restored if England stayed peaceful

  * If France failed to return Calais, would pay 500,000.
• (SCOTLAND) Death of Henry II in June 1559, succeeded by Francis II (married to Mary QoS), brought Catholic faction to power, French troops to guard Scottish fortresses, disliked by Knox
• Who was John Knox?

  Leader of the Scottish Reformation in Calvinism
• Elizabeth was cautious to interfere as they were rebelling against sovereign authority.
• Elizabeth disliked Knox and his preachings.
• Cecil supported protestants, knew England would be more secure without a French force.
• Cecil sought the removal of Mary Queen of Scots and wanted Scotland's involvement in imperial England.
• • Lords of Congregation accepted as provisional councilliar government, Guises fell from power.
  • Mary QoS lost influence on French policy, returned to Scotland, forced to accept political and religious powers of enemies.
• • Cecil triumphed, Scottish protestants protected, political influence of Mary was reduced.
  • Elizabeth was aware this was due to good fortune, more cautious policy in future!
• Conflict broke out between Catholics and Protestants in March 1562, France.
• Robert Dudley encouraged military pressure on the French crown, weak state and ensured the return of Calais.
• • Elizabeth promised Huguenot leader, Prince of Conde, 6000 men and £30,000 loan.
  • Huguenot army defeated and Conde captured, both sides left leaderless and so French factions agreed to accept peace terms - united and drove England out of Le Havre.
  • England hence forced to accept unfavourable peace settlement at Treaty of Troyes in 1564.
• • Elizabeth had lost security given from the Cateau-Cambresis, had also permanently lost Calais.
  • Might've been a long term success, expensive to maintain and too tempting for invasion.
• Elizabeth was more cautious about Protestant support, concerned about her attitude to the Netherlands.
• OVERALL?

  • Elizabeth made a broadly impressive start as Queen.
  • Assisted by Cecil, managed her accession and coronation skilfully.
  • She impressed foreign observers, such as Spanish ambassador.
  • Achieved a settlement in religion, attempted to be comprehensive.
  • Many unanswered questions in regard to marriage and succession.
  • She established herself as queen with remarkable success