In 1625, Scotland had a new king – Charles Stuart. It’s widely accepted that he faced some intractable problems as ‘King of Britain’; but with skill and diplomacy,Read More
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
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 differences becameRead More
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
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
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
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
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.
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.