Arrival of Mary, Queen of Scots

Who was Mary, Queen of Scots?

Mary, Queen of Scots, was Elizabeth's cousin. She became Queen of Scotland in 1542. In 1558 she married the heir to the throne of France and was briefly the queen of two countries. Mary was also an heir to the English throne.

When did Mary, Queen of Scots, rule?

Mary became Queen of Scots in 1542. She was briefly Queen of France, from 1559 to 1560, before returning to Scotland. She fled to England in 1568, where she lived in captivity until her execution in 1587.

Why was Mary, Queen of Scots, a threat to Elizabeth?

There were five main reasons why Mary was a threat to Elizabeth, even before Mary's arrival in England in 1568.

• ❖ Mary's first husband was Lord Darnley. He had a claim to the English throne, which strengthened Mary's own.
• ❖ Mary had a son, which meant she had a possible heir.
• ❖ Mary, Queen of Scots, was married to Francis II of France, which increased the risk of Scotland and France invading England. Mary could then become the Queen of England, too.
• ❖ Elizabeth did not have any children. Mary was her closest living relative, which made Mary next in line to the English throne.
• ❖ Because Mary, Queen of Scots, was Catholic, she was supported by those who wanted to restore Catholicism to England.

When did Mary, Queen of Scots flee Scotland to England?

In 1568 Mary, Queen of Scots, fled to England hoping for protection from her enemies in Scotland.

What was the reaction of Mary, Queen of Scots' supporters?

Mary's arrival in England increased Catholic resistance to Elizabeth. Mary was seen by Catholics as a rallying point and a figurehead for their rebellions.

How was Mary, Queen of Scots, treated by Elizabeth when she was in England?

Mary was held captive for 19 years at various locations in England until she was found guilty of plotting against Elizabeth and executed.