Elizabeth I - Secret Plots & Assassination Attempts (Video)

Elizabeth I, affectionately known as Good Queen Bess, faced numerous assassination plots and threats during her reign. In December 1583, Elizabeth herself acknowledged over 200 conspirators plotting against her, driven by the Jesuits. These plots began in earnest after her excommunication by the Pope in February 1570, which encouraged Catholics to remove her from the throne.

One notable plot was the Ridolfi Plot in 1571, orchestrated by Roberto Ridolfi. Ridolfi sought foreign support to overthrow Elizabeth and replace her with Mary, Queen of Scots. The plot was foiled when English sailor John Hawkins uncovered the conspiracy. The assailant's identity and weapon remain uncertain, but the attack highlighted the constant danger she faced.

• Queen Elizabeth I: The Controversies and the Accomplishments
• Mary, Queen of Scots: Tragic Heroine or Conniving Conspirator?

In 1583, John Somerville, a vociferous Catholic landowner, loudly proclaimed his intent to kill the Queen. Arrested and convicted of treason, Somerville died by suicide before his execution, yet his body was still beheaded. The Throckmorton Plot of 1583 involved a planned Spanish invasion, intending to replace Elizabeth with Mary. Sir Francis Throckmorton's role in the plot was uncovered, leading to his execution and further tightening of Elizabeth's security.

The Babington Plot of 1585 was one of the most famous. Anthony Babington, persuaded by Jesuit priest John Ballard, planned to assassinate Elizabeth. Through an intricate spy network, Secretary of State Francis Walsingham intercepted communications, leading to the arrest and execution of the conspirators, including Mary, Queen of Scots, who was executed in 1587.

Top image: Queen Elizabeth I of England.              Source: Public Domain

By Robbie Mitchell