Elizabeth I, Early Economic, Social and Religious Change
Economy –
Elizabeth inherited a throne with many economic issues,
namely poor harvests, high mortality rates, high taxation, and a
cut in real wages.
Legislation failed to pass, so change had to be directed at
Justices of the Peace at a local level. This was ineffective and
highlighted Government weakness.
Through the Statute of Artifices (1563) compulsory labour for
harvest time was introduced. A minimum of one year before
dismissal was set for Justices of the Peace, as well as a
maximum wage.
Poverty remained a widespread problem, with wages
consistently below prices. Cecil was concerned that large
unemployment numbers could lead to the breakdown of Law
and Order.
Poor relief was a traditional role for the church. Parliament
passed an Act 1563, however Governmental legislation
consistently lagged behind local initiatives.
Elizabeth found some success in increasing confidence in the
currency. Early in the reign, debased coins were withdrawn, to
be replaced with freshly minted coins. However, prices would
continue to rise for some time.
Economy –
Elizabeth inherited a throne with many economic issues,
namely poor harvests, high mortality rates, high taxation, and a
cut in real wages.
Legislation failed to pass, so change had to be directed at
Justices of the Peace at a local level. This was ineffective and
highlighted Government weakness.
Through the Statute of Artifices (1563) compulsory labour for
harvest time was introduced. A minimum of one year before
dismissal was set for Justices of the Peace, as well as a
maximum wage.
Poverty remained a widespread problem, with wages
consistently below prices. Cecil was concerned that large
unemployment numbers could lead to the breakdown of Law
and Order.
Poor relief was a traditional role for the church. Parliament
passed an Act 1563, however Governmental legislation
consistently lagged behind local initiatives.
Elizabeth found some success in increasing confidence in the
currency. Early in the reign, debased coins were withdrawn, to
be replaced with freshly minted coins. However, prices would
continue to rise for some time.
