Elizabethan Espionage And Its Impact On The Growth And...

During a time in England when there was much religious conflict, there was also a need to protect the queen due to her religious beliefs. The protectors who safeguarded Queen Elizabeth I from danger were commonly thought to be her brave knights or constables. However, there was actually a clandestine group of individuals who were charged with a similar duty. Unlike England’s military intelligence forces today, a disorganized spy group engaged in espionage for the defense of Renaissance England s important affairs and for Queen Elizabeth herself. Because of this spy ring s successes, Elizabethan espionage had a dramatic impact on the growth and evolution of England as a nation. Ever Since King Henry VIII’s departure from the Roman†¦show more content†¦Another-well known leader in Elizabeth’s network was Sir Francis Walsingham. Before the throne of Elizabeth I began in 1558, a noble English man, Sir Francis Walsingham, was not in favor of Queen Mary I’s authority (Mackovà ¡). Instead of abiding to the Mary I’s leadership, Francis traveled outside of England until the accession of Elizabeth I. When Sir Walsingham returned to a new ruler in England, he brought with him stronger relations with foreign contacts and knowledge that prove to be significant for a position he attained as Secretary of State. Eventually, Sir Walsingham would further strengthen England’s spy group to surveillance the depths within England and abroad for secrets that would prevent harm to England (Watts). In addition to Elizabeth’s closest advisers, Robert Dudley was among one of the three leaders who had firm control in Elizabeth I’s spy network. Dudley was a member of the queen’s privy council and was an appointee of Master of Horses, a position that involved organizing public attendances, progresses, and entertainment for the queen (Somerset, pp. 111). Dudley was Elizabeth I’s most favorite out of all her advisers. Both Elizabeth I and Dudley had romantic desires for each other, unfortunately nothing between them would escalate since not too many people were pleased about their relationship (Somerset, pp. 100-03) The queen’s newly founded secret service required individuals who could perform tasksShow MoreRelatedSecret Intelligence Service and Espionage4647 Words   |  19 PagesTo  what  extent  have  spies  and  covert  operations  shaped  the  course  of  history? Espionage plays a big role in our history and there are many examples that show it. The importance of espionage in military affairs has been recognized since the beginning of recorded history. The Egyptians had a well-developed secret service, and spying and subversion are mentioned in the  Iliad  and in the Bible. The ancient Chinese treatise (c.500 B.C.) on the art of war devotes much attention to deception and intelligence