patronage?

• Economic Resources:

  > The use of patronage enabled Elizabeth to ensure subjects were loyal to her. For example, Essex was one of the Queen’s favourites and she used patronage to make him a Privy Councillor in 1595. He had the

  monopoly of sweet wine in England which meant he could put a tax on

  anyone importing the wine, making him very rich.
• Government:

  > Patronage was important to gain wealth and power, you had to have

  been very close to the Queen. Elizabeth would distribute key jobs to some men as well. This would create competition which would therefore create loyalty. This allowed courtiers to focus and challenging each other rather than Elizabeth’s authority.
• Government:

  > For example, William Cecil, had a difficult relationship with Robert

  Dudley. They would give her contrasting advice, this would allow her to

  make measured decisions.