What-If Elizabeth I HAD Died From Smallpox? (Off the Record)
Sun Feb 08 2026
In the autumn of 1562, England held its breath. Queen Elizabeth I lay gravely ill with smallpox, her life uncertain, her kingdom unprepared for what might come next.
But what if she hadn’t survived?
In this episode, we explore one of the most chilling “what ifs” in English history. With no named heir, a fragile religious settlement, and rival claims waiting in the wings, Elizabeth’s death could have plunged England into chaos. Who would have taken the throne? Would Mary, Queen of Scots have prevailed - or would the Grey sisters have been revived as contenders? Who were some of the other contenders?
This isn’t just speculation - it’s a deep dive into succession law, political reality, and the very real anxieties of a nation on the brink.
History as it nearly was… and how close England came to a very different fate.
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Have you always wanted to get more into art history but don't think you have the skills or tools to do so? Well, art historian Dr. Emma Cahill Marron is offering a masterclass on identifying Holbein portraits using the skills she learned as an art historian. Join us on February 22nd! EARLY BIRD PRICING AVAILABLE NOW!
Get your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1980200278338?aff=oddtdtcreator
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Hosts:
Rebecca Larson
Amy McElroy
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In the autumn of 1562, England held its breath. Queen Elizabeth I lay gravely ill with smallpox, her life uncertain, her kingdom unprepared for what might come next. But what if she hadn’t survived? In this episode, we explore one of the most chilling “what ifs” in English history. With no named heir, a fragile religious settlement, and rival claims waiting in the wings, Elizabeth’s death could have plunged England into chaos. Who would have taken the throne? Would Mary, Queen of Scots have prevailed - or would the Grey sisters have been revived as contenders? Who were some of the other contenders? This isn’t just speculation - it’s a deep dive into succession law, political reality, and the very real anxieties of a nation on the brink. History as it nearly was… and how close England came to a very different fate. -- Have you always wanted to get more into art history but don't think you have the skills or tools to do so? Well, art historian Dr. Emma Cahill Marron is offering a masterclass on identifying Holbein portraits using the skills she learned as an art historian. Join us on February 22nd! EARLY BIRD PRICING AVAILABLE NOW! Get your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1980200278338?aff=oddtdtcreator -- Hosts: Rebecca Larson Amy McElroy