like. A series of controversies, often over apparently trivial matters such as what should be worn when celebrating the Eucharist, tested Elizabeth’s resolve to maintain uniformity and control. Under Elizabeth, then, a new religious phenomenon began: separatism. The Separatists refused to compromise on matters of religious practice, and formed their own, illegal, congregations where they could worship according to their own consciences, rather than according to the dictates of the state. Their convictions