Scottish History

Part 10

This is an article on Scottish history, and how it has come to shape the country of Scotland, Scottish Clans and its Scotts. Although before you continue reading you should be advised that this article is one in such a series, so to gain the best understanding I recommend that you at least read the previous article on Scottish history in this series.

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Once James V came into power, he began to try and subdue the rebellions of the Scots. This would come to be the biggest mark on his reign, other than which would be recorded as a relatively successful one. James also strengthened Scotland’s alliance with France by marrying a French woman, Marie De Guise. His reign ended in 1542, after his defeat at the battle of Solway Moss. The engagement came about after yet another failed campaign into England.

Shortly before his death, James V announced that he has fathered an heir; she came to be called Mary, Queen of Scots. England had once again begun to attack Scotland, this time in hopes of forcing Mary into marriage to the son of the English King, Henry VIII; this also came to hold its own name, “The rough wooing”. You can find a more detailed account of Mary, Queen of Scots here. For her safety Mary was sent to live in France, and the power in Scotland remained with the regents, this time being James Hamilton, Earl of Arran.

Soon after this point in Scottish history, Edinburgh was attacked and subsequently occupied by the English, under the leadership of Edward Seymour, 1st Duke of Somerset. Yet, since Mary was in France and the two countries still upheld their Auld Alliance. France came to the help of Scotland, and the English forces were forced into a full withdrawal by 1550.