King Philip II

Who was King Philip II?

Philip II of Spain was married to Elizabeth's sister, Mary I, making him the joint monarch of England. Their aim was to unite Catholic Spain and England. However, Mary's death in 1558, without children, prevented this.

How was Elizabeth's relationship with King Philip II?

Philip was angry when Elizabeth restored Protestantism as England's religion. He wanted control over England and proposed to Elizabeth, but she did not respond to his proposal.

How did Philip II behave towards Elizabeth I?

Philip II was loosely involved in the Ridolfi, Throckmorton, and Babington plots. However, he was keen to keep England as an ally and never did anything substantial, such as sending an army to invade, prior to 1588.