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1. (a) Describe two features of the Interdict - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 1 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 1
1. (a) Describe two features of the Interdict. Feature 1 Feature 2 (b) Explain why John was able to secure his power when he became king. You may use the followi... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1. (a) Describe two features of the Interdict - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 1 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe two features of the Interdict.
Answer
Feature 1: The Interdict was a powerful ecclesiastical tool used by the Church to suspend certain religious practices and services, effectively placing a community in spiritual isolation. This meant that church services, including marriages and baptisms, would be prohibited.
Feature 2: It was often employed to exert pressure on secular rulers, as the Interdict could lead to unrest among the populace, who were deprived of key religious rituals. Many prominent church figures who disagreed with a ruler could also be involved, reinforcing the pressure exerted against them.
Step 2
Explain why John was able to secure his power when he became king.
Answer
John was able to secure his power as he had a legitimate claim to the throne, having been the son of King Henry II and named successor by his brother, Richard. This bloodline gave him a foundational legitimacy.
Additionally, his marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine brought substantial territories and resources. Eleanor was a politically significant figure, and her support provided John with valuable alliances, enhancing his capability to consolidate power amidst rival factions.
Step 3
‘The main consequence of the Third Crusade was the financial burden on England.’ How far do you agree? Explain your answer.
Answer
I agree that the financial burden was a significant consequence of the Third Crusade, as enormous funds were required to finance the military campaigns and to pay ransoms, notably for Richard the Lionheart.
However, other consequences also emerged, such as the evolving political landscape and shifts in the balance of power; notably, Richard’s brother, John, was seen as a figure in the ongoing disputes over territories in France, which further destabilized England. Therefore, while the financial burden was indeed critical, it was not the sole consequence.
Step 4
‘John’s failure to regain Normandy in 1214 was the main reason for the rebellion of 1215.’ How far do you agree? Explain your answer.
Answer
I partly agree that John’s failure to regain Normandy in 1214 significantly contributed to the rebellion of 1215, as it diminished his prestige and authority as king. The loss of such an important territory generated dissatisfaction among his barons.
Moreover, the Battle of Bouvines marked a pivotal downfall for John, which exacerbated the situation. Additionally, his arbitrary power and heavy taxation to fund military efforts fostered resentment among the nobility, indicating that while not regaining Normandy was pivotal, discontent with his rule played a central role in the rebellion.