Mary I - Plans for the succession - RG1

Question 1

Mary’s overthrow of the Devyse had restored Henry VIII’s will, as established under which act?

Answer 1

The Succession Act of 1554

Question 2

Why was the prospect of dying childless problematic for Mary?

Answer 2

Elizabeth was a Protestant.
Mary regarded her as illegitimate and having no moral right to succeed to the throne.

Question 3

What were the only ways which Mary could deny Elizabeth her right of succession?

Answer 3

• Parliamentary legislation to overturn the 1554 Act of Succession
• Disqualification through treason

Question 4

What happened to Elizabeth following her suspected involvement in the Wyatt’s Rebellion of January 1554?

Answer 4

She was confined to the Tower of London.

Question 5

Why was Mary forced to release Elizabeth from the Tower of London after two months and keep her under house arrest?

Answer 5

She had no proof that she was involved in the rebellion and was reluctant to pursue treason charges without compelling evidence.