In this episode, we’ll examine the Puritans, devout Protestants influenced by reformers like John Calvin, who aimed to purify the Church of England by eliminating Catholic influences and embracing simplicity. We’ll discuss how their beliefs led them to challenge traditional ceremonies and the role of bishops, creating tension with Queen Elizabeth. To counter this, Elizabeth appointed anti-Puritan John Whitgift as Archbishop to enforce stricter rules, including banning unlicensed preaching. We’ll also explore the consequences of this crackdown, such as punishing printers of Puritan messages and imprisoning prominent dissenters, highlighting the Queen's efforts to suppress the Puritan movement and maintain religious control.

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