Economic and Social Conditions

The Economic Condition during Edward VI's Reign

In essence, Somerset and the council had to find solutions to prevent exacerbation of the Crown's financial conditions. Furthermore, an increasingly complicated social and economic situation had to be dealt with. During this period, England saw increases in population and vagrancy, harvest failures and surge in food prices.

Somerset's Policies

Somerset's policies were believed to be short-term solutions. After the rebellions in 1549 and the formation of the anti-Somerset faction, Somerset fell from power.

The Vagrancy Act, 1547

Somerset introduced the Vagrancy Act in 1547 to prevent public disorder caused by the growth in population and poverty. The act stated that any able-bodied person who was out of work for more than three days should be branded with a V and sold into slavery for two years.

Other offences committed by the same person would result in a life of slavery. Many local authorities refused to enforce the act, believing that they would be blamed for such inhumane legislation.

To resolve the increasing food prices, Somerset commissioned the investigation of the impact of enclosures which gave hope to the poor but distressed the landed class.

Northumberland's Policies

Northumberland replaced Somerset and emerged as the Lord President of the council. Like Somerset, he inherited the problems in England that needed to be solved. The kingdom was still bankrupt when he came to power, hence he resorted to debasing the coinage. Additionally, he appointed William Cecil and Sir Thomas Gresham to sort out England's economy who both persuaded London trading companies to support government debt and manipulated the stock markets in favour of the English market.

Northumberland handled the social issues that destabilised the society by:

1. Withdrawing the unpopular 1547 Vagrancy Act and supporting the disadvantaged
2. Appointing Lieutenants to deal with trouble at a local level
3. Repealing anti-enclosure legislation and stopping excessive interest from being charged on debts

Under Northumberland's social and economic policies, trade improved, prices fell, and the economy recovered a little from the financial burden caused by past wars and rebellions.

Glossary of Terms

Regency Council

A group of individuals who would exercise the authority of the Crown until the monarch had come of age.

Line of Succession

The order in which individuals are expected to succeed one another on the English throne.

Lord Protector of the Realm

An individual appointed to assist the monarch and oversee the Regency Council.

Faction

An informal grouping whose members have shared aims.

English Reformation

The 16th-century religious, political, intellectual and cultural upheaval that began with England's break with Rome.

Act of Uniformity

An act that made religious worship across England and its territories consistent.

End of Module Summary Questions