5 (a) Describe two features of Elizabeth's religious settlement (1559) - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 5 - 2018 - Paper 1

The increase in exploration during the years 1558-88 can be attributed to several key factors:

1. Navigational Aids: Advances in navigational technology, such as the astrolabe and improved maps, allowed sailors to travel further and with more confidence. This technological progress reduced the risks associated with long-distance sea voyages.

2. Luxury Goods: The European demand for luxury goods, such as spices, silk, and precious metals, incentivized exploration. The potential for profit drove merchants and explorers to seek new trade routes and territories, particularly as traditional routes were often controlled by rival powers.

3. Political Motives: Elizabeth's desire to expand England's influence overseas and the competition with other European powers, such as Spain and Portugal, also played a crucial role in promoting exploration during this era.

4. Adventurous Spirit: There was a growing spirit of adventure and curiosity about the world during this time, leading many individuals to seek their fortunes by exploring unknown territories.

While the effective use of naval tactics indeed played a significant role in the English victory over the Spanish Armada, other factors also contributed to the outcome.

1. Naval Tactics: The English fleet employed innovative tactics, such as the use of fire ships, to disrupt the Spanish formation, which showcased their strategic advantage over the more cumbersome Spanish galleons.

2. Bad Weather: The weather played a crucial role, as severe storms led to significant damage to the Spanish fleet, leading to heavy losses and retreat. This unpredictable factor cannot be underestimated.

3. Morale and Training: The morale and training of the English sailors were superior, fostering a sense of commitment to their cause. The leadership of Sir Francis Drake and others was instrumental in their successful tactical maneuvers.

To evaluate the claim regarding attitudes towards the poor from 1558-88, one can observe various elements:

1. Social Attitudes: While there was a growing awareness of the plight of the poor, traditional views that blamed them for their circumstances were still prevalent. Many believed that poverty was a result of laziness or moral failing rather than systemic issues.

2. Legislation: The introduction of Poor Laws in this period indicated a shift towards more structured support for the poor, reflecting a growing recognition of their needs, yet these laws often stigmatized the poor, indicating a reluctance to fully accept them into society.

3. Crisis Response: Economic downturns and crises, such as poor harvests, intensified attention on the poor, leading to temporary changes in attitudes and responses. However, once the crises passed, previous biases often resurfaced.