Lesson 2: Challenges Elizabeth faced at home in 1558

• What year did Elizabeth become Queen?

  1558
• What was one challenge Elizabeth faced regarding her legitimacy?

  Her parents' marriage was considered illegal
• Who was Elizabeth's mother?

  Anne Boleyn
• Why was Elizabeth considered a 'bastard' child?

  Her parents were not legally married
• What religious challenge did Elizabeth face?

  Catholics opposed her Protestant beliefs
• Who influenced Catholics against Elizabeth?

  The Pope
• What was expected of Elizabeth regarding marriage?

  She was expected to marry for political alliances
• Which marriage proposal did Elizabeth decline?

  Philip of Spain
• What was Elizabeth's belief about marriage?

  She wanted to marry her country instead
• What pressure did Elizabeth face from her Privy Council and Parliament?

  They pressured her to marry and have children
• Why was having children important for Elizabeth?

  To ensure an heir for the Tudor family
• How much debt was England in when Elizabeth became Queen?

  £300,000
• What was one way Elizabeth could increase her wealth?

  By taxing her people more
• What was a potential consequence of taxing her people more?

  It could make her unpopular
• What was a notable aspect of Elizabeth's personality?

  She was confident and well-educated
• What was a criticism of Elizabeth's decision-making?

  She took too long to make decisions
• What previous ruler caused concern for Elizabeth's reign?

  Her half-sister, Mary I
• What were some negative actions associated with Mary I's rule?

  She caused poverty and executed Protestants
• What were the main challenges Elizabeth faced when she became Queen?

  • Legitimacy to the throne
  • Religious opposition from Catholics
  • Pressure to marry and have children
  • Gender biases against female rulers
  • Economic challenges and debt
  • Decision-making frustrations
  • Concerns about her ruling abilities compared to Mary I
• What are the key terms associated with Elizabeth's challenges?

  • Legitimate
  • Pope
  • Economy
  • Debt
  • Tax
  • Protestants
  • Catholics
  • Inferior
  • Mary I