Question 1: Elizabeth I became Queen of England in 1558, following the death of her sister, Mary I. Her reign lasted until 1603, a period known as the Elizabethan Age, famous for cultural flourishing and religious stability. Key events include the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588 and the establishment of the English church's independence. This topic matters because it shaped modern Britain’s identity and power.

Answer: Elizabeth I's reign from 1558 to 1603 was marked by political stability, cultural growth, and national strength, notably through events like the defeat of the Spanish Armada and the establishment of the Anglican Church.

Question 1: When did Elizabeth I become Queen of England?

Answer: 1558

Question 2: Which event marked a major victory for Elizabeth's navy?

Answer: Defeat of the Spanish Armada

Question 3: Name one reason Elizabeth I was called the 'Virgin Queen'.

Answer: Because she never married and remained single throughout her reign.

Question 4: List two challenges faced by Elizabeth I during her reign.

Answer: Religious conflicts and threats from Spain.

Question 5: What was the significance of the Elizabethan Age?

Answer: It was a period of cultural renaissance, exploration, and strengthening of national identity.

Question 1: Source: 'Elizabeth I famously declared, "I have the heart and stomach of a king".' What can you infer about Elizabeth I's image and how she wanted to be seen?

Answer: This suggests Elizabeth wanted to portray herself as a strong, courageous ruler, emphasizing her authority and resilience to inspire loyalty.

Question 2: Source: A letter from a supporter praising Elizabeth's leadership during the Spanish threat. How might this source influence public opinion?

Answer: It would likely boost morale and support for Elizabeth by portraying her as a capable and inspiring leader in times of danger.

Question 3: Evaluate the reliability of this source: a royal proclamation praising Elizabeth's religious policy. What biases might it contain?

Answer: As an official proclamation, it is likely biased in favor of Elizabeth, emphasizing her successes and downplaying any religious conflicts or failures.

Question 1: Explain why the defeat of the Spanish Armada was a significant event in Elizabeth I's reign.

Answer: The defeat marked a major naval victory that boosted national pride, established England as a formidable sea power, and weakened Spain's dominance.

Question 2: Describe how Elizabeth I managed religious divisions in England.

Answer: Elizabeth adopted the Elizabethan Religious Settlement, combining Protestant reforms with some Catholic traditions to promote religious stability and moderate dissent.

Question 3: Explain the importance of Elizabeth I's patronage of the arts and exploration.

Answer: Her support fostered a cultural renaissance, enhanced national prestige, and encouraged exploration that expanded England's influence globally.

Question 1: To what extent was Elizabeth I's religious policy successful in maintaining stability in England?

Answer: Model answer: Elizabeth's Religious Settlement successfully established a moderate Protestant church, reducing religious conflicts and uniting many Protestants and some Catholics. However, it also faced opposition from hardline Catholics and Puritans, leading to ongoing tensions. Overall, her policy achieved a degree of religious stability, but not complete harmony, making it a largely successful but imperfect approach.

Question 2: How far do you agree that Elizabeth I was primarily a political ruler rather than a religious one?

Answer: Model answer: While Elizabeth was deeply involved in religious matters, her primary goal was political stability and national strength. Her religious policies served political purposes, such as consolidating her power and uniting her subjects. Therefore, her role as a political ruler was paramount, though her religious actions were closely intertwined with her political objectives.