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5 (a) Describe two features of Elizabeth's religious settlement (1559) - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 5
5 (a) Describe two features of Elizabeth's religious settlement (1559). Feature 1 (b) Explain why there was an increase in exploration in the years 1558-88. Y... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:5 (a) Describe two features of Elizabeth's religious settlement (1559) - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Feature 1
Answer
One significant feature of Elizabeth's religious settlement was the establishment of the Elizabethan Religious Settlement itself, which was aimed at finding a middle ground between Catholicism and Protestantism. This included the Act of Supremacy (1559) that declared Elizabeth as the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, thus ensuring the church's independence from Rome. Another key feature was the Act of Uniformity (1559), which mandated the use of the Book of Common Prayer in church services, thereby creating a standardized form of worship.
Step 2
Explain why there was an increase in exploration in the years 1558-88.
Answer
The increase in exploration during the years 1558-88 can largely be attributed to advancements in navigational aids and the burgeoning interest in luxury goods. Firstly, navigational improvements such as the magnetic compass and the astrolabe facilitated safer and more efficient voyages. These tools allowed sailors to determine their position and navigate more accurately, thereby encouraging longer voyages to distant lands. Secondly, the demand for luxury goods, particularly spices, silk, and precious metals, prompted exploration. European powers sought new trade routes as these goods could bring immense wealth. As a result, English explorers set out on ambitious journeys to discover new territories and establish trade networks.
Step 3
‘The effective use of naval tactics was the main reason for the English victory over the Spanish Armada.’
Answer
While the effective use of naval tactics certainly played a vital role in the English victory over the Spanish Armada in 1588, it was not the sole reason for this outcome. Other significant factors included the weather conditions that favored the English fleet and the strategic lead-up to the confrontation. The English commanders effectively utilized tactics such as the use of fire ships to cause chaos within the Spanish fleet. However, the Spanish were also hindered by bad weather, which severely disrupted their plans. Thus, while naval tactics were essential, the combination of weather conditions and Spanish logistical issues also contributed significantly to their defeat.
Step 4
‘There was little change in attitudes towards the poor in the years 1558-88.’
Answer
Assessing the changes in attitudes towards the poor during the years 1558-88 reveals a complex picture. While many traditional views that stigmatized the poor persisted, there were notable developments in legislation aimed at addressing poverty. For instance, the rise of the Poor Law Act in 1601 marked a shift towards systematic assistance for the needy. However, before this period, attitudes largely remained rooted in charity rather than systemic change. Therefore, while some attitudes persisted, there was a gradual movement towards more structured help for the poor, indicating a degree of change.