She also practiced dancing and sewing. All these characteristics would soon play a role in the very strong leader Elizabeth would become. .
Jane Seymour, Henry's third wife, would in fact produce his much longed for male heir, Edward VI. Edward would reign for a very short time before his sister Mary would become Queen in 1553. Mary's goal was to lead the country back to Catholicism. During her reign Elizabeth would be accused of plotting against her sister in order to gain the throne she would also spend time in the infamous Tower of London. During her sister's rein Elizabeth experienced ill health and was faced by many trying times (Green18). .
Finally, after a very long, hard journey Elizabeth's time would come. On November 17, 1553, Mary died, and Elizabeth succeeded to the throne. An elaborate coronation ceremony was held in her honor. Elizabeth believed that a large ceremony was needed to send a message to all .
those who opposed her, that she truly was the Queen of England (Thomas 80). .
Elizabeth encountered much hardship during her time as Queen. There were many prejudices against women rulers. Elizabeth however, was a very intelligent woman she realized the significance of obtaining the coalition of potent men in order to rule effectively. She summoned Parliament ten times during her reign. She utilized Parliament to improve the economy and promote her new policies. One of Elizabeth's most important economic decisions was to issue a new currency. This new currency made it more reliable and enabled businesses to begin long-term financial contracts. Another important contribution that Elizabeth made to the English economy an act of legislation called the Poor Laws. These laws made every local parish responsible for its own poor. It created workhouses, and harshly punished homeless beggars. Parliament also enacted bills that would maintain fair prices in times of shortage and regulate wages in times of unemployment.