English Politics During Units 1 & 2

During Unit 1, the most important political event was the 100 Year's War. The 100 Year's War was essentially a debate over rightful heir to the French throne. In 1328, Charles IV of France, the last surviving child of Philip the Fair, died childless. This created the controversy as who was next to take the throne in France. Also in contention were French lands that were owned by English kings, such as Flanders. These states wanted to be free of French control, Flanders in particular had a great wool industry. The war consisted of a series of raids, not non-stop fighting. France held an advantage of a greater population, wealthier government, and bigger army, while the British had better weapon technology, captured enemies for ransom, and only took part in quick, pitched battles. The longbow and the cannon were two very important weapons utilized by the British. It seemed as though England would win the war, when suddenly the Kings of both countries died. With the help of Joan of Ark, France rallied and defeated Britain. No treaty was formed, there was simply a succession of hostilities. Britain established its hour of commons.

During Unit 2, the most prominent leader was King Henry VIII. Henry was married 6 times, and executed 2 of his wives for adultery (Anne Boleyn, Katherine Howard). He created the new religion Anglicanism, in order to allow himself the power to divorce his wives. Also during this period was the controversy of Mary Queen of Scots. Mary married first a French man named Francis II, but he died as heir to the French throne. She killed her second wife for cheating on her, and when suspicion arose, she ran away with another man named James Hepburn. She was captured again and sent to live with her cousin Elizabeth, Queen of England. Realizing that she was the only heir to the English throne if Elizabeth were to die, Mary plotted to kill her. She was caught before she was able to complete the task, and was beheaded at last.