Conclusion of chapter on Governmnet, politics and the state 1536-88

The end of this chapter looks at whether or not there was a political crisis?


It is often believed that there was a non-political crisis:

• The permanent machinery of State continued to function without a break after 1547


• The ruling elites provided great support and loyalty to the legitimate monarchy


• Although there was considerable rivalry between the political factions under Edward VI, it was no greater than it had been during the reign of Henry VIII


• At no time, even in 1549 with the fall of somerset, was there a real political crisis


• It is true that the political leadership was often inept and indecisive between 1547 and 1558, even so the administration continued to function without a check and some useful measures of bureaucratic reform were passed.

Although there is general agreement that there was no serious mid-century political or constitutional crisis, opinions about the political leadership continue to vary:

• The 'good' Duke of Somerset is now seen in a much less favourable light, while the 'bad' Duke of Northumberland is credited with being a much more able politician than has been traditionally thought


• Mary I is still regarded as a monarch without any real ability, but her reign is now thought to have achieved some significant advances.