The Throckmorton Plot Flashcards
What was the overall threat level of the Throckmorton Plot?
Minimal due to reliance on foreign support that never materialized
The plotters expected aid from France and Spain, which did not arrive.
Who were the intended targets of the Throckmorton Plot?
Mary, Queen of Scots and potentially Elizabeth I
The government suspected the plot aimed at assassinating Elizabeth.
What was found during the search of Throckmorton’s house?
Incriminating papers linking leading Catholic nobles to the plot
These documents included details about harbors suitable for an invasion.
How was Mary, Queen of Scots involved in the Throckmorton Plot?
She was the target of the plot
Throckmorton initially confessed she was aware of the plot, but later retracted this statement.
Who was expelled by Elizabeth?
The Spanish ambassador, Mendoza
This action reflects Elizabeth’s increasing tensions with Spain.
When and where was Francis throckmorton executed
He was executed at Tyburn in July 1584
Throckmorton was implicated in plots against Elizabeth.
What event in July 1584 heightened fears for Elizabeth’s safety?
The assassination of William of Orange
This assassination led to fears of a similar plot against Elizabeth.
What did Elizabeth’s government focus on to ensure her safety?
Finding concrete evidence to incriminate Mary, Queen of Scots
The government believed Elizabeth would never be safe as long as Mary was alive.
What was the overall threat level posed by France or Spain according to Elizabeth’s government?
They perceived a significant threat
The approaching war with Catholic Spain intensified these fears.
Who is the plot named after?
Francis Throckmorton
He was a young English Catholic involved in the plot.
What was the primary role of Francis Throckmorton in the plot?
Carrier of letters between Mary, Queen of Scots and foreign ambassadors
He communicated with the French and Spanish ambassadors.
What was the intended outcome of the Throckmorton Plot?
Popular uprising in northern England and restoration of Catholicism
The plan coincided with an invasion led by the French Duke of Guise.
Who was financially supporting the Throckmorton Plot?
Philip II of Spain
His support was crucial for the planned uprising.
What did Throckmorton confess was the ultimate target of the plot?
To free Mary, Queen of Scots and restore Catholicism in England
The government believed the plot aimed at Elizabeth’s life.
When was Throckmorton put under surveillance?
End of April 1583
His activities raised suspicions leading to surveillance.
What was discovered during the search of Throckmorton’s house?
Incriminating papers and details of harbours suitable for invasion
These documents implicated leading Catholic nobles.
What did Throckmorton claim about the progress of the plot?
The plan had not progressed due to lack of funds from Philip II
He stated that the promised money had not arrived.
What was the nature of the evidence regarding Mary, Queen of Scots’ involvement?
Hazy and inconclusive
Throckmorton initially claimed she knew of the plot but retracted under torture.
What was the outcome of the Throckmorton Plot before it could gain public support?
It was discovered by Elizabeth’s government
This prevented any actual popular uprising from occurring.
True or False: Throckmorton’s confession included details that were never retracted.
False
Throckmorton later withdrew his confession about Mary’s involvement.
