Historian A: John Guy – Political Threats "John Guy argues that the main challenge to Elizabeth came from political conspiracies and plots, such as the Ridolfi and Babington plots. He emphasizes that these plots were motivated by Catholic opposition who sought to replace Elizabeth with Mary, Queen of Scots. According to Guy, Elizabeth's government responded with strict measures, which helped to maintain her stability but also increased tensions. He views these plots as significant threats that could have led to a Catholic uprising and the fall of her reign if uncovered or successful."

Historian B: Susan Doran – Religious and Social Threats "Susan Doran contends that the greatest challenges to Elizabeth stemmed from religious and social unrest. She points to the rise of Protestantism and the threat from Catholic recusants as sources of internal instability. Doran suggests that social tensions, including poverty and rebellion, also posed risks to Elizabeth’s rule. She believes that these internal issues were more dangerous than political conspiracies because they could ignite widespread unrest and undermine her authority from within the kingdom."