Edward VI 1547-53

• Problems of his ascension

  1. He was 9

  2.England was in a religious divide

  Wars with Scotland and France with Henry 8 caused a ruined economy

  
  

  3.Inflation caused by debasement of coinage led to decline in income

  
  

  4.the crown had compromised their long term security by selling monastic lands to raise money fast
• Edward's uncle, the Duke of Somerset became regent until he came of age
• Within weeks, Somerset has gained full control of government. He reinforced this power by appointing Sir Michael Stanhope as Chief Gentleman.
• Members of the privy council had grown resentful of Somerset and his influence over the young king.
• The council also was resentful of Somerset's protectorate, and their was no guarantee that it would be accepted.

  Leading to widespread fear of the breakdown of law and order.
• Factionalism and rivalries soured Somerset's control. E.G Thomas Seymour who sought to turn Edward VI against the other.

  Somerset placed treason charges against Seymour.
• Somerset's failures of foreign policy was a leading factor in his downfall, especially in regards to Scotland.

  His failures to handle rebellions such as the 1549 rebellion also was a factor.
• His arrogant manor caused him to gain enemies, especially important political allies such as Soulthampton causing his influence to be majorly declining
• His most vital enemy was the Earl of Warwick
• in 1549, Earl of Warwick decided it was time for Somerset to go.

  Norwick, Soulthampton and two other noblemen tried to enlist the help of Mary I but she stayed clear to avoid conspiracy.

  In October, they went after Somerset, who fled to Windsor with Edward, and offered him to have no treason charges.

  He surrendered.
• The Duke of Northumberland was promoted after his second coup attacking conservative forces
• Northumberland operated through a Privy Council, which William Paget drew up a set of guidelines to make it more effective, which Northumberland instituted.

  However, Paget found himself found himself being excluded.
• William Cecil became Northumberland's key administrator
• After Somerset's coup, Northumberland became less conciliar, and acted like Somerset.

  Paget was removed from council and sent to the tower
• Northumberland held possession of the dry stamp, with which he used to sign the king's documents.
• Northumberland's reputation was destroyed in his attempt to altar the succsession.

  
• In 1553, Edward had fallen ill and without a heir, Northumberland was fearful that Mary I would make England a catholic country.

  In such the Devyse was produced to make both his sisters removed from succession.
• Lady Jane Grey was the next planned monarch. However Edward had passed on the 6th July before it was legally delcared.

  Making the Dyvse illegal. However, Lady Jane Grey was still made queen on the 9th of July.