In 1603 James VI also became James I of England. for the rest of his reign he would be an absentee in Scotland, except one visit in 1617. Would theRead More
HoS 53 16th Century Highlands and Islands - Members Only
The removal of the Macdonald Lords of the Isles by Stewart kings actually widened the gap between Scottish lowland and highland culture, and by the 16th century the differencesRead More
HoS 52 National Building - Members Only
The urge to build a stronger sense of nationhood was a common movement throughout Europe, extending the effectiveness of central governance, law and public finance. In banishing factionalism, James wasRead More
HoS 51 Peace and Authority - Members Only
John Thirlsstone came to power on the coattails of the Duke of Lennox; ‘a puddock-stoole’ he was described by horrified Magnates, who would distrust is lowly birth. He and JamesRead More
HoS 50 The Cradle King - Members Only
A picture of a young James VI – falcon already on arm as James’ love of hunting started early. James VI described himself as the Cradle King – and crowned atRead More
Transcript for HOS 50
Right everyone, now that Mary is gone, we can move on emotionally and chronologically. Although I feel the need to take a step back to help us move forward, toRead More
HoS 49 The Trials of Mary - Members Only
Mary’s arrival in England was like a political bomb going off. As accusations from the Confederate lords followed her over the border, Mary would have to fight for herRead More
HoS 48 By Battle let us Try it - Members Only
1567 and 1568 were years of chaos and enormous challenge for Mary that would have stretched anyone. She would face the challenges of ambition, misogyny and violence.
HoS 47 There and Back Again - Members Only
In the face of Elizabethan dithering and, frankly, absurd demands about conditions on her marriage, Mary makes a fateful marriage choice. There will be consequences. Blood. Life.
HoS 46 The Fault is rather in Ourselves - Members Only
For the first couple of years back in Scotland, Mary aimed for conciliation and consensus, on her own terms. And largely, she controlled factionalism.