| Tempting
but unwise. Elizabeth was prepared to consider Mary's trial
and execution, as the 'Scottish solution' suggests. However, without
definite proof of Mary's guilt, her execution would almost certainly
have launched a Spanish or French invasion. As Queen of England,
Elizabeth's over-riding concern had to be for the safety of the
people. |
Correct.
The Northern Rising and Ridolfi Plot could be accepted as the price
Elizabeth knew she would have to pay for accepting Mary as her 'guest'
in 1568. Both plots had been discovered and defeated. The crucial
difference between 1568 and 1572 was that France and Spain, encouraged
by the Pope, were now both free of other problems and eager to overthrow
the 'heretic queen'. Mary's execution would have given them all
the excuse they needed.
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 f
you were Elizabeth I, what would you do regarding Mary Queen of
Scots? Look below at the options open to Elizabeth in May 1572. When you've
decided what to do, click on your chosen option to see if you made the
right decision.
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