Plots and Revolts at Home Flashcards
1
Q
When was the Throckmorton Plot?
A
1583
2
Q
What was the Throckmorton Plot?
A
The French Duke of Guise (a cousin of Mary) plotted to: invade England, overthrow Elizabeth, free Mary and make England catholic again.
3
Q
Who was Francis Throckmorton?
A
A young Englishman who would pass letters between Mary and the plotters
4
Q
What were the failures of the Throckmorton Plot?
A
- In May 1583, Sir Francis Walsigham discovered the plot
- In November 1583, Walsigham’s spies went to Throckmorton’s house and revealed his role in the plot
- After being tortued Throckmorton finally confessed his involvement in May 1584
5
Q
Why was the Throckmorton Plot significant?
A
It revealed extent of threat posed by foreign Catholic powers, English Catholics and Mary
6
Q
When did Elizabeth sign Mary, Queen of Scots death warrant?
A
Februrary 1587
7
Q
What were the reasons for the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots?
A
- Mary had been involved in a series of plots against Elizabeth, such as the revolt of the Northern Earls, the Ridolfi plot, the Throckmorton plot and the Babington plot.
- Walsingham’s spies had unearthed evidence that Mary was involved with the plotters. This led to her trial and conviction under the Act for Preservation of the Queen’s Safety
- Phillip II had been involved in the Ridolfi plot with Mary so she posed as a high risk factor for Spain invading
- Mary remained a rallying point for disgruntled Catholics who saw her as a legitimate queen.
- The pope excommunicated Elizabeth in 1570, making Mary an alternative Catholic monarch who could take the throne by foreign invasion.
8
Q
Why was Mary Queen of Scots execution significant?
A
- Mary was an anointed monarch, so executing her set a dangerous. The execution made the succession precedent.
- The execution further angered Spain and gave Philip II further reason to attack England
- The execution removed an important threat to Elizabeth, as Mary had been the focus of many Catholic plots to depose Elizabeth.
