Elizabethan Government and Parliament

Elizabeth I governed England for forty-five years (1558–1603) — a remarkable achievement in a period when female rule was considered unnatural and when religious division threatened civil war across Europe. This lesson examines the structures of Elizabethan government, Elizabeth's complex relationship with Parliament, the role of faction at court, and the contribution of her key ministers.

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The Privy Council

The Privy Council was the executive core of Elizabethan government.

Feature	Detail
Size	Typically 19–20 members (smaller and more efficient than under earlier Tudors)
Meeting frequency	Met almost daily when the court was in session
Membership	A mix of nobles, churchmen, and professional administrators; all appointed by the queen
Functions	Advising the monarch, implementing policy, managing finance, overseeing local government, handling foreign correspondence, dealing with threats to security
Key principle	The Council advised; Elizabeth decided. The distinction was fundamental and Elizabeth enforced it rigorously

Key Privy Councillors