Elizabeth’s key ministers and advisers

• What was the Privy Council?

  • The Privy Council were a group of powerful noblemen appointed by Elizabeth. They advised Elizabeth but did not control her.
• How many men made up the Privy Council and why this specific number?

  19 - minimise conflict between them, but she also had to make sure no one member got too powerful or became disloyal.
• How often did the Privy Council meet?

  Everyday.
• What did the Privy Council advise Elizabeth on?

  • They advised on domestic and foreign issues such as how to handle challenges and threats, when to go to war, relations with foreign ambassadors, and supervising the enforcement of the Religious Settlement.
• Label this about the Privy Council:

  A) 19

  B) Advise not control

  C) Domestic and Foregin Issues

  D) Met everyday

  
• Who were Elizabeth's main advisers?

  William Cecil, Robert Dudley, Sir Francis Walsingham
• What did Elizabeth appoint William Cecil as and when?

  Elizabeth appointed Cecil as the Secretary of State in 1558
• Who was Robert Dudley?

  Earl of Leicester and a trusted adviser until he died in 1588. He and Elizabeth were very close and there were rumours that he and Elizabeth were lovers.
• Who was Sir Francis Walsingham?

  Sir Francis Walsingham - was in charge of Elizabeth’s secret service and advised on foreign affairs. In 1586, he uncovered the plot that led to Mary, Queen of Scots’ execution.