Babington Plot

Attempt to assassinate Elizabeth I, and to place Mary Queen of Scots on the English throne. However, it turned out to be a failure.

The plot was given its name after Anthony Babington, an English Catholic whose goal was to re-establish Catholicism in England. Babington wanted Mary to become the Queen of England, who at that time was already held prisoner in England. He began to write letters to Mary promising her a rescue and the English throne. The Babington Plot found support by other Catholics from all over Europe that wanted to assassinate Elizabeth. Even the Spanish King, Philip II, promised to send his troops to England.

Elizabeth knew from her secretary, Sir Francis Walsingham about Mary’s plans regarding the English throne, however, she refused to have Mary executed in view of the fact that there was no evidence. So, the goal of Walsingham was to provide this evidence. To get a proof of Mary’s guilt he had her spied on.

Babington and Mary did not realize that spies intercepted their letters. In 1586, Anthony Babington wrote a new letter to Mary with the details of the plot. He asked for Mary's permission to assassinate Elizabeth. Mary in her turn agreed with all aspects of the plot, and by doing this she condemned herself to death since the letter was copied and forwarded to Walsingham.

Babington as well as other conspirators were tried and executed in August 1586. Although Elizabeth was first against Mary being executed, and even refused to sign her death warrant, she was strongly encouraged by Parliament and her advisors to do so. Mary Queen of Scots was tried on the basis of the evidence provided, found guilty and executed in February 1587.

Sources

• Williams, Brenda and Williams, Brian. Kings & Queens. History Press Jarrold Publishing, 2004.

• http://www.history-magazine.com/babington.html

• http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/TUDbabingtonP.htm

• http://www.tudorplace.com.ar/Documents/Babington_plot.htm