What were the causes and consequences of the Spanish revolt that occurred after Charles left to be crowned Holy Roman Emperor?
Causes:
1. Resentment towards foreign rule, as many Spaniards felt that Charles, who was born in Flanders, favored his Flemish advisors and interests over Spanish ones.
2. High taxes and economic difficulties burdening the populace.
3. The desire for greater local autonomy and influence in governance.
Consequences:
1. The revolt was ultimately suppressed, leading to the consolidation of power by Charles V and the strengthening of the monarchy.
2. A significant loss of life and property among the rebels.
3. Increased centralization of Spanish governance and a shift toward a more authoritarian rule, which diminished local privileges and increased royal control.
What were the causes of the Dutch revolt? What was the “demonstration effect”?
The Dutch revolt, or the Eighty Years' War, was caused by religious tensions between Protestants and Catholics, heavy taxes from the Spanish crown, and a desire for more local control. The "demonstration effect" refers to how successful uprisings in other countries inspired the Dutch to fight for their own rights and freedoms, believing they could achieve similar victories.
Who were the contending parties in the French wars of religion? What was the St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre? What was the Edict of Nantes?
The French Wars of Religion were between Catholics and Protestants. The St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre in 1572 was when thousands of protestants were killed by Catholics. The Edict of Nantes, issued in 1598, granted protestants the right to practice their religion and aimed to end the conflict.
Describe the religious policy of Elizabeth I.
Elizabeth I's religious policy aimed for a middle ground between Catholics and Protestants. She established the Church of England as the official church, promoting Protestant practices but allowing some Catholic traditions. Her goal was to create a unified nation and reduce religious conflict, so she enforced the Act of Uniformity, which required attendance at Anglican services. Elizabeth sought tolerance and stability, avoiding extreme measures against either side, which helped maintain relative peace during her reign.