The diplomatic authority of William Davison

Abstract Secretary William Davison (d. 1608) is best known for his involvement in the execution of Mary, queen of Scots, in 1587. This article explores Davison’s earlier diplomatic career, specifically his mission to the Low Countries in autumn 1585. It argues, first, that Davison was an influential...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:Historical research : the bulletin of the Institute of Historical Research Vol. 97; no. 278; pp. 476 - 488
Main Author: Cousins, Rosalyn
Format: Journal Article
Language:English
Published: 31-10-2024
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Abstract Secretary William Davison (d. 1608) is best known for his involvement in the execution of Mary, queen of Scots, in 1587. This article explores Davison’s earlier diplomatic career, specifically his mission to the Low Countries in autumn 1585. It argues, first, that Davison was an influential political actor prior to his elevation to the privy council, as he fulfilled significant diplomatic responsibilities and was highly regarded by his conciliar patrons; and second, that study of Davison’s diplomatic career casts new light on familiar debates over mid-Elizabethan diplomacy, men of business and patron-client relationships.
ISSN:0950-3471
1468-2281
DOI:10.1093/hisres/htae011