The social impact of religious and economic changes under Mary I

Economic change and its social impact

Mary inherited an important economic siuation in 1553, and this continually worsened throughout her reign, as inflation continued which peaked in important distress in years 1556-1558. There were a series of bad harvests and the population suffered bursts of many outbreaks, including the plague.

Long-term

Population growth mixed with limited increases of productive capacity (especially in agriculture) caused inflation.

Medium term

Effect of debasement on coinage made inflation worse.

Short term

Harvest failures in 1555 and 1556 (severe food shortages, straining the real wages for the poor). Impact of 'sweating sickness' (Influenzia) between 1557-1558. High taxation in paying the war against France.

Social distress

The government made some attempts of addressing these issues:

• 1556-1558: re-coinage plans organizing (although not executed till Elizabeth is queen).
• 1555: Poor Law extended the 1552 Act and offered licensed beggars to wear badges: this would encourage fellow parishioners into donating more gifts for the poor relief.
• Encouragement given into the changing of grazing land in order to crop farming.
• Industry movements from the town to countryside were discouraged in an attempt to reduce urban unemployment.

Not all measures were successful and benefits weren't realised till Elizabeth's reign.

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