Question 1
Evaluate the interpretations in both of the two passages and explain which you think is more
convincing as an explanation of the threat posed by Tyrone’s rebellion.
Passage A
Elizabeth saw the peril. But she dealt with it by sending Essex as Lord Lieutenant and the largest army sent to Ireland in the Tudor period. This was not her best decision. Essex had argued himself into the job as he claimed he was her most experienced captain. The Council poured resources into Ireland, such was their perception of the threat. But Essex did not prove equal to the task and wasted his time and his troops in needless manoeuvres. When he finally marched north to face Tyrone he took few men and did not dare risk giving battle. He met Tyrone alone and accusations of treachery followed. He then came home, going against his orders, rushing into the royal presence when the Queen was only just out of bed and without her wig and make-up.
Elizabeth acted swiftly. She replaced Essex with Charles Blount, Lord Mountjoy, as Lord Deputy and Sir George Carew as Lord President of Munster with an army the same size as previously. Here the similarities end. Mountjoy moved rapidly and effectively. He was far better at peace-making and winning over the native Irish who were tiring of the rule of Tyrone. He was fortunate in capturing some Irish leaders. Even the landing of Spanish troops was overcome and they surrendered.
Adapted from: N. Fellows and M. Dicken, England 1485–1603, published in 2015.
Passage B Adapted from J Warren, 'Access To History:yy Elizabeth I - Religion and Foreign Affairs', p126, Hodder Edcuation, 2002. Item removed due to third party copyright restrictions.
Adapted from: J. Warren, Elizabeth I: Religion and Foreign Affairs, published in 2002.
[30]
Answer
