A more Protestant Nation, 1547–1553 (A-level only) Key Terms

Book of Common Prayer

A liturgical text used in the Church of England, introduced under Edward VI to standardize Protestant worship.

Protectorate

The period during which Somerset and later Northumberland governed England on behalf of the young King Edward VI.

Protestantism

A branch of Christianity that emerged in the 16th century, emphasizing the authority of scripture and justification by faith.

Liturgical Reform

Changes made to the public worship practices of the church, particularly in the context of the Protestant Reformation.

Enclosure

The process of consolidating small landholdings into larger farms, often leading to displacement of peasant farmers.

Protestant Reformation

A religious movement in the 16th century that led to the establishment of Protestant churches and significant changes in Christian doctrine and practice.

Succession Crisis

A political conflict regarding the rightful heir to the English throne, particularly surrounding the transition from Edward VI to Mary I in 1553.

Devise for the Succession

A legal document created by Edward VI that attempted to change the line of succession to the English throne, favoring Lady Jane Grey over Mary I.