Second Statute of Repeal facts for kids
| Act of Parliament | |
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| Citation | 1 & 2 Ph. & M. c. 8 |
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Quick facts for kids Other legislation |
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| Repealed by | Statute Law Revision Act 1863 |
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Status: Repealed
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The Second Statute of Repeal was an important law passed in 1555. It was created by the Parliament of England during the rule of Queen Mary I and King Philip. This law followed an earlier one from 1553, called the First Statute of Repeal.
The first law had cancelled all religious laws made during the time of Edward VI. The Second Statute of Repeal went even further. It cancelled all religious laws that had been made against the Pope's power since 1529. This was when King Henry VIII started to break away from the Catholic Church.
Even though this new law brought back the Pope's power, Queen Mary was allowed to keep the title of "Supreme Head of the Church of England." King Henry VIII had given himself this title with his Act of Supremacy in 1534. This new law was popular with rich landowners. It let them keep the land they had gained after the monasteries were closed down.
Later, these laws were cancelled again by Elizabeth I's Act of Uniformity 1558.
Contents
What Was the Second Statute of Repeal?
The Second Statute of Repeal was a law passed in 1555. It aimed to undo many of the religious changes that had happened in England. Queen Mary I wanted to bring England back to the Catholic Church.
Why Was This Law Important?
This law was a big step in Queen Mary's plan. It tried to reverse the changes made by her father, King Henry VIII, and her brother, King Edward VI. These changes had moved England away from the Pope's authority.
What Did the Law Change?
The law cancelled many older laws that had limited the Pope's power in England. It meant that the Pope's authority was restored. However, Queen Mary still kept her title as the head of the Church in England. This was a way to keep some control.
Who Supported This Law?
Many people supported the Second Statute of Repeal, especially wealthy landowners.
Why Did Landowners Support It?
During King Henry VIII's reign, many monasteries were closed. Their lands were taken by the Crown and then sold to rich families. These landowners were worried that if the Pope's power returned fully, they might have to give back these lands. The new law allowed them to keep the lands they had bought. This made them happy and gained their support for Queen Mary.
What Happened Next?
The changes made by the Second Statute of Repeal did not last forever.
How Were These Laws Undone?
When Elizabeth I became queen, she had different ideas about religion. She passed her own law, the Act of Uniformity 1558. This new law cancelled the Second Statute of Repeal. It set England on a different religious path once again.
See also
