1.4 The problem of Mary, Queen of Scots

Question 1

What is the significance of Mary’s descendence from Margaret Tudor? (3)

Answer 1

• Mary had a legitimate claim to the English throne (Elizabeth’s second cousin) → threat to Elizabeth’s reign.
• Married to French King and inherited Scottish crown → increased foreign relations increases threat
• Raised catholic → strongest foreign countries were catholic and England was now declared protestant.

Question 2

What were the implications from Mary’s arrival in England, 1568? (3)

Answer 2

• The Privy Council believed Mary should be instigated for the murder of Lord Darnley - suspected her.
• Catholics gained hope that Catholicism could be restored in England.
• Scottish rebels desired for Mary to be given back and tried for the murder for Lord Darnley.