nov 30, 1571 - The Ridolfi Plot

Description:

Ridolfi had played a minor part in the Revolt of the Northern Earls two years earlier.

The plot involved Ridolfi taking messages from Mary Queen of Scots to Pope Pius V, Philip II and Spanish forces commanded by the Duke of Alva based in the Netherlands.

Ridolfi left England to to meet the Duke of Alva in the Netherlands (who led the Spanish army based there) carrying letters writing in code. Ridolfi then travelled to meet with the Pope and Philip II.

The letters argued for an invasion of England, with the aim of overthrowing Elizabeth and replacing her with Mary (who would marry the Duke of Norfolk), leading to the restoration of Catholicism in England.

Philip wrote to the Duke of Alva telling him to prepare an army of 10,000 men.

Mary gave her consent to the plot in March 1571.

The plot failed as William Cecils spy network intercepted some of these letters and deciphered their code.

Whilst the Duke of Norfolk was executed, Elizabeth decided not to execute Mary Queen of Scots for her involvement in the plot. Ridolfi managed to avoid the fate of the Duke of Norfolk since he remained in Italy. In retaliation at Spanish involvement, Elizabeth expelled the Spanish ambassador. The plot intensified the feeling amongst Elizabeth's court that Spain was becoming a growing threat.

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