Plots Against Elizabeth

Question 1

Babbington Plot (1586)

Answer 1

Babbington wrote to Mary about his plans to invade with France which was intercepted and deciphered by Walsingham. This provided evidence for Mary’s involvement in the plots and led to her execution in February 1587.

Question 2

What was the significance of the Babbington plot?

Answer 2

• Led to Mary’s execution
• Worsened relations between England and Spain
• Removed a direct threat to Elizabeth and weakened Catholicism in Britain

Question 3

Ridolfi Plot (1571)

Answer 3

The Italian banker Ridolfi arranged a plot to murder Elizabeth, launch a Spanish invasion and make Mary queen. Spanish troops planned to support from the Netherlands, but by late 1571, William Cecil had uncovered the plot.

Question 4

What was the significance of the Ridolfi plot

Answer 4

• Mary was charged with execution, but Elizabeth wouldn’t let this happen
• Elizabeth decided to try improve relations with France
• Threat by Mary & Catholics shown to increase both at home and abroad.

Question 5

Throckmorton Plot (1583)

Answer 5

The French Duke of Guise planned to invade England, overthrowing Elizabeth and putting Mary on the throne. Throckmorton was to act as a go between Mary, however, Walsingham uncovered the plot by searching his home.

Question 6

What was the significance of the Throckmorton plot?

Answer 6

• Life was harder for Catholics - the government become more suspicious of them
• Act of Parliament passed in 1585 making it punishable by death for sheltering a Catholic priest.