James VI
King James VI is considered to have been one of the most intellectual and learned individuals ever to sit on the English or Scottish Throne. But he wasn't always liked and was dubbed 'the wisest fool' by some. He was the first King to rule Scotland, England and Ireland at the same time. His long reign was a period of great social change and cultural advancement.
The early life of James VI
With his father murdered and his mother Queen Mary under arrest, James became king at the age of only thirteen months. With several guardians competing with each other for control of his kingdom, the young James has to grow up quickly. What was his childhood like?
James VI: Gunpowder, treason and plot
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Womens' History Scotland
Find out more about the lives of women in this period with this short biography on the Women's History Scotland website.