Question 1: Describe two reasons why King James I believed he had divine right to rule England. Use historical context to support your answer.

Answer: King James I believed in divine right because he thought his authority came directly from God, not from Parliament or the people. He cited biblical passages to justify his power and believed that questioning him was equivalent to questioning God's authority.

Question 2: Explain the significance of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605 in shaping attitudes towards Catholics in England.

Answer: The Gunpowder Plot was a failed attempt by Catholic conspirators to blow up Parliament and kill King James I. Its failure increased suspicion and hostility towards Catholics, leading to stricter laws and greater persecution of Catholics in England.

Question 3: Compare the political beliefs of King Charles I with those of Parliament during the early 17th century. Highlight at least two differences.

Answer: King Charles I believed in the divine right of kings and thought he should have absolute authority, often dismissing Parliament when it disagreed with him. Parliament, on the other hand, believed in limiting royal power and wanted a say in government decisions, leading to conflicts over authority.

Question 4: Describe the events that led to the English Civil War. Focus on the key issues causing conflict between King Charles I and Parliament.

Answer: The conflict arose from disagreements over royal authority, taxation without Parliament's consent, and religious differences. Charles I's attempts to rule without Parliament and impose his religious policies angered many, leading to open conflict and eventually the outbreak of the Civil War.

Question 5: Explain the outcome of the English Civil War and its impact on the monarchy.

Answer: The Parliament forces won the Civil War, leading to the trial and execution of King Charles I. This resulted in the temporary abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of the Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell, which challenged traditional royal authority.

Question 6: Draw a simple timeline illustrating the key events from the start of King James I's reign to the execution of Charles I. Label at least four major events.

Answer: A correct timeline would include: 1603 - James I becomes king; 1605 - Gunpowder Plot; 1625 - Charles I becomes king; 1642 - Start of the Civil War; 1649 - Execution of Charles I.

Question 7: Sketch a basic diagram showing the relationship between the King, Parliament, and the Court system during the early Stuart period. Include labels for each component.

Answer: A correct sketch would depict three circles or boxes labeled 'King,' 'Parliament,' and 'Court System,' with arrows indicating the flow of authority or influence, showing the tensions and connections among them.

Question 8: Identify and explain two reasons why the monarchy was restored in 1660 after the period of the Commonwealth.

Answer: The monarchy was restored because many people missed traditional royal authority and stability, and Oliver Cromwell's Protectorate was unpopular. Additionally, the return to monarchy was seen as a way to unify the country and restore religious and political order.

Question 9: Evaluate the extent to which the events of the Stuart period changed the balance of power between the monarchy and Parliament.

Answer: The Stuart period significantly shifted the balance of power. Initially, monarchs like James I and Charles I believed in royal supremacy, but conflicts and civil war led to Parliament gaining influence. The execution of Charles I and the establishment of the Commonwealth reduced royal power temporarily. The Restoration restored monarchy but with greater parliamentary influence, setting the stage for constitutional monarchy in later centuries.