Catholic Threat

What was the Counter-Reformation?

The Counter-Reformation was a movement in the Catholic church that tried to convert Protestants back to Catholicism. Missionaries were sent to England with the support of the pope.

Who were the Jesuits in the Counter-Reformation?

The Jesuits were important in the Counter-Reformation. They did not want direct rebellion but wanted to spread their religious message in England. Elizabeth saw them as a threat when they arrived in 1580.

Who was Edmund Campion in the Counter-Reformation?

In 1580 the Jesuits started their mission in England, led by Edmund Campion. Campion preached his message to ordinary English people all over the country but was eventually executed on suspicion of wanting to start a rebellion.

What was Elizabeth's response to the Counter-Reformation?

Elizabeth's tolerance, shown in the Religious Settlement, faded later on in her reign as she became harsher in her treatment of Catholics.

• ❖ Recusancy fines were introduced for Catholics who did not participate in Protestant services. In 1581 this cost £20 - more than most people could afford.
• ❖ Any Catholic priests ordained after 1559 were viewed as traitors.
• ❖ The 1585 Act against Jesuits and seminary priests called for all Jesuits to be driven out of England.
• ❖ All English Jesuits were ordered to return to England and swear their loyalty to the queen, otherwise they faced execution for treason.