Mary, Queen of Scots and Catholic plots against Elizabeth

Question 1

1571 Ridolfi Plot

Answer 1

Detail:
Involved a conspiracy for Mary to marry the Duke of Norfolk and to overthrow Elizabeth.

Significance:
Allowed Burghley to ensure the execution of Norfolk for treason.

Question 2

1583 Throckmorton Plot

Answer 2

Detail:
Foreign landing in Sussex followed by overthrow of Elizabeth and her replacement by Mary. Foiled by the efficiency of Sir Francis Walsingham’s espionage network.

Significance:
1) Led to the creation of the Bond of Association.

2) Worsened Anglo-Spanish relations

3) Tightened conditions of Mary’s captivity

Question 3

1585 Parry Plot

Answer 3

Detail:
Plot to assassinate the queen.

Significance:
Led to the acceleration of parliamentary proceedings on a bill to ensure the queen’s safety.

Question 4

1586 Babington Plot

Answer 4

Detail:
Mary complicit in a plot to assassinate Elizabeth but exposed by Walsingham’s codebreaker, Thomas Phelippes.

Significance:
Enabled Burghley to secure Mary’s execution.