The Tudor Society

1 February – Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots’ death warrant and Mary I’s Rousing Speech

On this day in Tudor history, 1st February 1587, Queen Elizabeth I called her secretary, William Davison, to her and asked him to bring her the death warrant of Mary, Queen of Scots. She then signed it. However, she didn't want it to be sent to Fotheringhay, where Mary was held, until she said so. But it was sent.

Elizabeth wanted someone else to take responsibility for Mary's death, she even wanted her jailer to assassinate her!

Find out all about this, and how Mary DID end up being executed in February 1587, in this talk...

Also on this day in Tudor history, 1st February 1554, Queen Mary I gave a rousing speech at the Guildhall to rally Londoners against Wyatt’s rebellion.

Find out what Mary said in this video...

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1 February – Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots’ death warrant and Mary I’s Rousing Speech