The Unexpected Succession: Why Edward VI Chose Lady Jane Grey Over His Sister Elizabeth

During the late 16th century, England was embroiled in a complex succession crisis. Among the heartening debates surrounding this era, one of the most intriguing and often misunderstood episodes concerns why Edward VI named Lady Jane Grey as his heir over his sister, Elizabeth. This decision was not solely based on religious beliefs but was a strategic move aimed at maintaining the Protestant Reformation and countering potential Catholic challenges.

The Religious Context of Edward's Ascension

Edward VI ascended to the throne in 1547 at the young age of nine. The early Tudor period was a time of intense religious strife and change. Henry VIII had initiated the English Reformation, breaking away from the Roman Catholic Church and establishing the Church of England under his own authority. By the time Edward came to the throne, the Protestant reforms were well underway, and England was a Protestant nation. Edward's personal and political goals were driven by his commitment to maintaining these reforms.

The Issue of Legitimacy

Edward’s will removed both Mary and Elizabeth from the succession on the grounds of their supposed illegitimacy, not their religious affiliations. The key player behind these changes was Jane Grey’s father, Thomas Grey, Marquess of Dorset. King Edward was still in the process of finalizing his will, and his advisors, led by Thomas Grey, convinced him to legally legitimize Jane Grey so she could ascend to the throne.

Edward's Fears of a Catholic Reversal

Edward's primary concern was to prevent his Catholic sister, Mary, from reversing the Protestant reforms he had initiated. His belief in the supremacy of Protestantism was rooted in his upbringing and his close relationship with his more religious advisors. When Edward became ill, it was clear that Mary and Elizabeth were the most viable alternatives, but his advisors pushed for Jane Grey as the safer choice.

The Unfavorable Reactions and Failures of the Plan

Edward's succession plan failed almost immediately after his death. His advisors' attempts to thwart Mary's claim to the throne were seen as inadequate. Edward's fears were ultimately realized when Mary was proclaimed queen, and she launched a Catholic counter-reformation.

The Controversy Over Elizabeth’s Legitimacy

Elizabeth faced multiple challenges to her legitimacy. Historically, she was made illegitimate by Henry VIII, who accused her mother, Anne Boleyn, of treason and adultery. Anne was executed, and Elizabeth was declared illegitimate. The name "Boleyn" was considered 'not to be mentioned' after Anne’s death, as evidenced by Thomas Seymour joking, "Never mention Boleyn" while discussing the war with France.

Elizabeth also had her share of troubles with her step-uncle, Thomas Seymour. She was caught in a compromising situation with him and his wife, and later was implicated in his treason. Even though this incident was later cleared, Elizabeth still bore the mark of Seymour's arrest, making her a less appealing candidate for the throne.

The Selection of Lady Jane Grey

Despite the challenges, Jane Grey was selected as Edward's heir for several key reasons. She was a very learned and dedicated Protestant, corresponding with prominent figures in the Reformation. Her reputation was untainted by scandal, which made her a safer choice than Elizabeth. Additionally, Jane's mother was the daughter of the Duke of Northumberland, who was Edward's regent, providing a strong political connection.

The nine-day reign of Lady Jane Grey was a failure, but it served as a critical moment in English history. It underscored the complexities of succession and the ongoing struggle between Protestant and Catholic interests during this tumultuous period.

Ultimately, the choice of Lady Jane Grey over Elizabeth Tudor was a strategic move to preserve the Protestant Reformation and to prevent a Catholic restoration. Although the plan did not succeed immediately, it remains an intriguing episode in British history, highlighting the political and religious considerations that shaped the Tudor succession.