Elizabeth’s first key task was to surround herself with trusted advisers, a group called the Privy Council
The Privy Council were a group of powerful noblemen appointed by Elizabeth. They advised Elizabeth but did not control her.
Elizabeth chose a small group of 19 men to minimise conflict between them, but she also had to make sure no one member got too powerful or became disloyal
The Privy Council met every day and was the most powerful part of the machinery of the government.
The Privy Council 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
William Cecil (One of Elizabeth's main advisors)
Elizabeth appointed Cecil as the Secretary of State in 1558 . He was her most important minister and guided her wisely for 40 years. In 1571, he received the title Lord Burghley
The Secretary of State was the senior member of the Privy Council
Robert Dudley (One of Elizabeth's main advisors)
Robert Dudley was the Earl of Leicester and a trusted adviser until he died in 1588. He and Elizabeth were very close and there were rumors that he and Elizabeth were lovers
Sir Francis Walsingham (One of Elizabeth's main advisors)
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
