His legacy as a king is somewhat more mixed. After taking the throne of England James boasted that he ruled Scotland with the stroke of a pen. James's relationship with the country of his birth ...

After a long reign as Queen of England, Elizabeth I finally died. This was the moment her cousin and heir, the Scottish King James VI, had been waiting for. Scotland was one of the poorest ...

In March 1603, Elizabeth died and James became king of England and Ireland in a remarkably smooth transition of power. After 1603 he only visited Scotland once, in 1617. One of James's great ...

But how long ago was the British monarchy established? Which ruler can rightfully call themselves the first King of England?