Ridolfi Plot

• Who: Roberto Ridolfi (spy for the Pope) - Italian Banker.
• What: Worked for the English government. Plan was to overthrow Elizabeth and asked Spain to invade.
• Where: The plot took place in England.
• Why: Wanted to change England back to Catholic and put MQS on the throne.
• When: Plot took place in 1571.
• Ridolfi had the support of King Phillip of Spain (Elizabeth rejected his marriage proposal, was married to Mary I), Duke of Norfolk (In prison for his involvement in the Northern Rebellion), Mary Queen of Scots (Elizabeth's cousin, rightful heir in eyes of Catholics)
• The plot was uncovered by Cecil, one of Elizabeth's advisors.
• Consequences

  • Ridolfi and Spanish Ambassador were arrested and exiled from the country.
  • Norfolk was executed in 1572 for high treason.