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Write an account of the difficulties which faced Queen Elizabeth as a female ruler - AQA - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 3
Write an account of the difficulties which faced Queen Elizabeth as a female ruler. [8 marks]
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Write an account of the difficulties which faced Queen Elizabeth as a female ruler - AQA - GCSE History - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Difficulty of Gender Expectations
Answer
As a female ruler in a largely patriarchal society, Queen Elizabeth I faced significant gender-based discrimination. Women were often viewed as inferior to men, which put Elizabeth in a challenging position. Many questioned her capability to lead a nation, as prevailing attitudes suggested that leadership was inherently a male trait.
Step 2
Political Pressure and Marriage Expectations
Answer
Elizabeth was under continuous pressure to marry, as her advisors and subjects believed that a woman could not effectively govern without a male consort. This pressure created a dilemma for her: if she married a foreign prince, it could jeopardize English sovereignty, while marrying an English noble could create domestic strife.
Step 3
Religious and Political Opposition
Answer
The Religious tensions of the time also presented difficulties for Elizabeth. As a Protestant in a Catholic nation, she faced opposition from Catholic factions who sought to undermine her rule. This opposition was not just limited to external forces but also included internal threats from those who wished to place a Catholic ruler on the throne.
Step 4