From the beginning of her reign, the Protestant Elizabeth had a potential enemy in her Catholic cousin Mary. For some time attempts were made by both women to bridge the gap and establish a friendship, but some foolish choices by her cousin occasionally forced Elizabeth to support Mary's enemies. Eventually, a plot against Elizabeth was discovered and Mary was implicated. Elizabeth was forced to have her cousin imprisoned and, ultimately, executed. Who was this troublesome relative?

1. Bloody Mary
2. Mary of Guise
3. Mary Stuart

The answer is c. Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots.

Mary was, theoretically, next in line to Elizabeth's throne, and as a Catholic she became a focal point for attempts by Catholic insurgents, at times at home but mostly abroad, to instigate an overthrow of Elizabeth. It was just such a plot that landed Mary in the Tower, and whether or not she herself was truly a part of it remains a mystery. It is likely that she was not involved, but even so many people in England were anxious to see her executed and the threat to Elizabeth permanently removed. Elizabeth waited as long as she could, and signed the death warrant amidst a great deal of agonizing.

"Bloody Mary" was the unkind epithet applied to Elizabeth's sister, and Mary of Guise was Mary Stuart's mother, one-time regent of Scotland.

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