To what extent were disputes over religion, in the years 1603 to 1625, due to James I?

Advantages agree with the statement, disadvantages contradict the statement

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To what extent were disputes over religion, in the years 1603 to 1625, due to James I?

Advantages

  • Foreign policy - 'Rex pacificus' led to peace in several nations. This led to religious conflict due to confusion of failure to enforce Anglicanism abroad. E.g., Treaty of London 1604, did not enforce this in Spain. However, financial benefits.
  • Distrust from his ascension surrounding Presbyterian advisors and roots led to heightened pro-Anglican policies (e.g., stricter recusancy fines 1606 onwards)
  • Ignored many puritan desires. E.g., New Bancroft Cannons 1604 was influnced by Archbishop, angering many puritains so much that 1% moved from the country. Book of Sports in 1618 similarly caused conflict with puritans. However, concessions (i.e., reduction in swearing and drunkeness) made in 1621 with acceptance of Puritan Bill.

Disadvantages

  • He was good at subduing extremes of religion to reduce disputes. E.g., dealing with military petition (1603) with Hampton Court showed his willingness to compromise, but also his political awareness (as extreme puritans were not invited). He also contributed to several crucial developments in religion - e.g., King James Bible 1611 made religion increasingly accessible.
  • Pre-existing hostilities were the main factor towards disputes. Elizabethan Middleway had created a set where nobody was especially happy and tensions remained from the turbulent rule of Tudors before (e.g., Persecution under Bloody Mary and general effects of the Reformation).
  • External radicalism and plots. E.g., Gunpower plot forced new laws into place (e.g., Oath of Allegiance from Catholics 1606). Heightening tensions not through James' own fault.

Evaluation

James played a role heightening disputes and religious tensions, though often not with the intention of doing so, or with damning consequences. He did make compromises regarding religion, lessening disputes which could have been much greater if not, and generally did a reasonable job at trying to maintain the Elizabethan Middleway. Unfortunately, this entire system was flawed, leading to the disputes, and eventually its collapse.

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