Religion and religious divisions: Catholics, Puritans and development of Arminianism
Three religious groups — Catholics, Puritans, and Arminians — each made different demands on the Stuart kings. Their competing beliefs created serious political tensions throughout this period.
Real World
The Gunpowder Plot of 1605, led by Robert Catesby and Guy Fawkes, was a direct consequence of Catholic desperation after James I refused to ease recusancy fines — a reminder that religious policy had life-or-death stakes.
Exam Focus
Distinguish between Arminianism and Puritanism precisely; examiners penalise students who conflate all Protestant dissent into one category.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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