The Triumph of Elizabeth, 1563–1603: Foreign Affairs - Mary, Queen of Scots; Ridolfi Plot

Question 1

When was the Ridolfi Plot?

Answer 1

• 1571

Question 2

Who led the Ridolfi plot?

Answer 2

• Ridolfi
• Banker from Florence
• Involved in Northern Rebellion (1569)

Question 3

What did the Ridolfi Plot plan involve?

Answer 3

• Landing of Spanish troops in Harwich, Essex
• March on London
• With aid from English Catholics, overthrow Elizabeth
• Marry Mary, Queen of Scots to Duke of Norfolk

Question 4

What did Philip II and the Duke of Alba (Spanish commander in Netherlands) think of Mary being put on the English throne?

Answer 4

• Not keen on having a francophile on the English throne

Question 5

How was the Ridfolfi Plot uncovered?

Answer 5

• One of Ridolfi’s messengers were apprehended in Dover and cracked under torture

Question 6

How did the Crown respond to the Ridolfi Plot?

Answer 6

• Lord Burghley (Cecil) used parliamentary pressure to force Elizabeth to execute Norfolk and attaint Mary of treason
• Execution of Norfolk is secured through the 1572 Parliament
• Mary kept in prison, not executed