Question 1: Describe two reasons why Henry VIII broke away from the Roman Catholic Church to establish the Church of England.

Answer: Henry VIII broke away from the Catholic Church primarily because he wanted an annulment of his marriage to Catherine of Aragon, which the Pope refused. Additionally, he wanted to assert greater royal control over religious matters and increase his own power by establishing the Church of England, independent of papal authority.

Question 2: Explain the significance of the Act of Supremacy of 1534 in the context of Tudor England.

Answer: The Act of Supremacy declared Henry VIII as the Supreme Head of the Church of England. This was significant because it legally separated England from papal authority, increased royal power over religious affairs, and marked the beginning of the English Reformation.

Question 3: Identify and explain two impacts of the Dissolution of the Monasteries during Henry VIII’s reign.

Answer: One impact was the transfer of wealth and land from the church to the crown, which increased royal income. Another impact was the suppression of monastic communities, which reduced the influence of the Catholic Church in England and led to the loss of many religious buildings and institutions.

Question 4: Discuss how Elizabeth I’s religious policies helped to stabilize England after her accession to the throne.

Answer: Elizabeth I implemented the Elizabethan Religious Settlement, which created a moderate form of Protestantism and aimed to unify the country. The Act of Supremacy (1559) reaffirmed her title as Supreme Governor, while the Act of Uniformity set out a standard prayer book. These policies reduced religious conflict and promoted stability.

Question 5: Describe the main features of the Tudor navy and its importance for England.

Answer: The Tudor navy was built up significantly during Elizabeth I’s reign, featuring larger ships, better technology, and a focus on naval power. Its importance lay in defending England from invasions, such as the Spanish Armada, and establishing England as a major maritime power.

Question 6: Sketch a simple diagram of a Tudor-era ship’s layout, labeling key features such as the bow, stern, and main deck.

Answer: A correct sketch would show an elongated ship with a pointed front (bow), a flat rear (stern), and the main deck running across the top. Labels should include 'bow', 'stern', and 'main deck'.

Question 7: Evaluate the reasons why the Tudor monarchs, especially Elizabeth I, supported exploration and overseas expansion.

Answer: Tudor monarchs supported exploration to increase wealth through new trade routes and resources, enhance national prestige, and establish new territories. Elizabeth I, in particular, saw exploration as a way to challenge Spain and Portugal’s dominance and to strengthen England’s position as a global power.

Question 8: Explain how the conflict between Catholics and Protestants during the Tudor period affected English society.

Answer: The religious conflicts led to social divisions, persecution of those with differing beliefs, and instability. Changes in religious policy, such as shifts between Catholicism and Protestantism, caused unrest, rebellions, and affected people’s everyday lives, often leading to tensions within communities.

Question 9: Identify two ways in which the Tudors strengthened the power of the monarchy.

Answer: The Tudors strengthened royal authority by centralizing government power, such as establishing the Royal Court and using royal councils. They also used propaganda and marriage alliances to secure their position and suppress threats to their rule.

Question 10: Discuss the significance of the Spanish Armada of 1588 for England’s national identity.

Answer: The defeat of the Spanish Armada was seen as a major English victory and a turning point that boosted national confidence and pride. It established England as a formidable naval power and helped to forge a sense of unity and independence from Spain.