E1 - The Babington Plot (1586)

Question 1

What was the Babington Plot?

Answer 1

• This plot was the same as the Throckmorton Plot
• Again the Pope and King Phillip II of Spain supported the plot
• Anthony Babington was this time the man delivering the messages between Mary and the French Duke of Guise
• Elizabeth’s Spymaster discovered the plot and Babington was executed

Question 2

What was the significance of the Babington Plot?

Answer 2

• Elizabeth finally decided to put Mary on trial. She was found guilty and executed on the 8th of February 1587
• The relationship with Spain had completely broken down (England was also helping Dutch rebels fight against the Spanish at this time too)
• Elizabeth was now determined to crush Catholicism in Enlgand