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5 (a) Describe two features of Elizabeth’s religious settlement (1559) - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 5
5 (a) Describe two features of Elizabeth’s religious settlement (1559). Feature 1 Feature 2 (b) Explain why there was an increase in exploration in the years 1558... 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 2
Step 1
Feature 1
Answer
One key feature of Elizabeth's religious settlement was the Act of Supremacy (1559). This legislation reinstated the monarch as the supreme head of the Church of England, ensuring that all religious authority was centralized in the monarchy. Elizabeth's position as the 'Supreme Governor' signified a clear rejection of papal authority and aimed to unify the country under a single religious framework.
Step 2
Feature 2
Answer
Another significant feature was the Act of Uniformity (1559), which established a standardized format for public worship. This act required all church services to follow the Book of Common Prayer, promoting consistency in religious practices across England. By enforcing uniformity, Elizabeth sought to minimize the religious divisions that had plagued her predecessors, fostering a more cohesive national identity.
Step 3
Explain why there was an increase in exploration in the years 1558–88
Answer
The increase in exploration during the years 1558–88 can be attributed to several factors. First, the advancement of navigational aids such as the compass and astrolabe significantly improved sailors' ability to navigate vast oceans. This made it easier and safer for sailors to travel across extensive waters.
Moreover, the growing desire for luxury goods was a driving force behind exploration. As merchants sought new sources of wealth, they were eager to establish trade routes to regions rich in valuable commodities. For example, the quest for spices and precious metals fueled expeditions to the Americas and beyond.
Additionally, competition with rival powers, such as Spain and Portugal, pushed England to expand its territories and influence through exploration. This strategic pursuit of trade routes enabled England to assert its presence on the global stage.