Religion was one of the most divisive issues during the reign of Elizabeth I. Following years of religious turbulence in England, Elizabeth sought to unify the nation through her 1559 Religious Settlement. However, her efforts to establish a middle ground between Catholics and Protestants met with resistance. These efforts posed ongoing challenges to her rule.

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Key Events:

1. The Religious Settlement (1559):
Elizabeth I enacted two crucial laws to settle the religious disputes that had plagued England. The first was the Act of Uniformity. The second was the Act of Supremacy. These acts restored Protestantism as the official religion while retaining some Catholic traditions to appeal to both factions. The goal was to create a middle way, ensuring national unity and preventing religious conflict. The Religious Settlement outlined the structure of the Church of England. It ensured Elizabeth’s position as Supreme Governor. It also mandated attendance at Anglican services. Despite these efforts, discontent brewed among strict Protestants (Puritans). They wanted further reforms. Discontent also brewed among Catholics who remained loyal to the Pope.

2. Catholic Plots and Challenges:
Despite the settlement, Catholic plots frequently threatened Elizabeth’s rule. Catholics, both in England and abroad, sought to depose her and place Mary, Queen of Scots—a Catholic—on the throne. Significant conspiracies were uncovered. The Ridolfi Plot (1571) aimed to marry Mary to the Duke of Norfolk and overthrow Elizabeth. The Babington Plot (1586) sought the same outcome. These plots were backed by foreign Catholic powers such as Spain and France. This increased the danger to Elizabeth’s reign. It highlighted the religious divide that persisted despite her efforts at conciliation. Each plot strengthened Elizabeth’s resolve and increased the persecution of Catholics.

3. The Execution of Mary, Queen of Scots (1587):
Elizabeth reluctantly ordered the execution of her cousin. Mary, Queen of Scots, was executed in 1587. This came after years of plotting and imprisonment. Though this eliminated a key Catholic rival, it also inflamed tensions with Catholic Europe, especially Spain. This decision marked a turning point in Elizabeth’s reign. It led to increased hostility from Spain and eventually the launch of the Spanish Armada.

Related | The Spanish Armada: How Elizabeth I defended England from Invasion

Impact:

Elizabeth’s careful navigation of religious tensions helped maintain relative peace and stability in England during her reign. The 1559 Religious Settlement laid the foundation for a Protestant England. However, tensions between Catholics and Protestants continued throughout her rule. Elizabeth balanced diplomacy and enforcement. She managed to ward off both internal and external threats to her throne. This secured her legacy as a shrewd and successful monarch.

How Apollo Scholars Can Help:

Religious conflicts during Elizabeth’s reign are complex. At Apollo Scholars, we can guide GCSE and A-Level students through the critical events. We make it easier to understand the religious and political dynamics of this period. We break down the key plots, policies and personalities that shaped Elizabethan England, preparing students for exam success.

Book your online or in-person session today. 

Unlock exclusive resources in our Mission Control hub.