Skip to content
    History GCSE

    Legitimacy and succession

    What Legitimacy and succession means in History GCSE, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.

    Definitions of Legitimacy and succession

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Legitimacy and succession in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: Pearson Edexcel

    The note links Mary's strong claim as Henry VII's great-granddaughter to the unresolved succession, since Elizabeth remained unmarried and childless.
    Pearson Edexcel · Option B4: Key topic 1: Queen, government and religion, 1558–69 - 4 The problem of Mary, Queen of Scots (study guide)
    The basis on which a claimant asserted a right to the throne after Edward's death, resting on a promise, an oath, a treaty or blood.
    Pearson Edexcel · Option B1: Key topic 1: Anglo-Saxon England and the Norman Conquest, 1060–66 - 3 The rival claimants for the throne (study guide)

    Topics that use Legitimacy and succession

    Related terms

    Using Legitimacy and succession in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise History questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All History GCSE terms