4.3: Elizabeth I’s Successors, James VI / I to Charles I

Elizabeth I never married and left no children to inherit her throne. When she passed away in 1603, her cousin, James VI of Scotland, became her heir. He was crowned James I of England, Wales, and Ireland, though Scotland remained a separate nation under his rule.

The King James Bible

One of the most significant achievements of James I’s reign was the commissioning of a new English translation of the Bible. This translation, known as the King James Version or the Authorised Version, was not the first Bible in English but became one of the most influential. It remains widely used in many Protestant churches today.

Ireland

English Rule and Rebellions

At this time, Ireland was predominantly Catholic. Under Henry VII and Henry VIII, English control had been extended beyond the Pale, and by the end of Henry VIII’s reign, English authority was established across Ireland. Henry VIII even adopted the title ‘King of Ireland’. English laws were introduced, and local Irish leaders were expected to follow the orders of the Lord Lieutenants based in Dublin.

The Ulster Plantations

During the reigns of Elizabeth I and James I, many Irish people resisted Protestant rule from England, leading to a series of rebellions. In response, the English government encouraged Protestant settlers from England and Scotland to colonise Ulster, the northern province of Ireland. These settlements were called plantations, with many of the new settlers coming from south-west Scotland, while other land was granted to companies in London. James I later established similar plantations in other parts of Ireland. These events had long-term consequences for the history of England, Scotland, and Ireland.

The Rise of Parliament

Political Management under Elizabeth I and James I

Elizabeth I was highly skilled in managing Parliament, balancing her views with the opinions of both the House of Lords and the increasingly Protestant House of Commons. However, James I and his son Charles I were less politically astute. Both believed in the ‘Divine Right of Kings’, a belief that kings were appointed by God and should not require the approval of Parliament to govern.

Charles I and the 11 Years of Tyranny

When Charles I inherited the thrones of England, Wales, Ireland, and Scotland, he attempted to govern without Parliament’s involvement. For 11 years, Charles raised money through various means without seeking parliamentary approval, but troubles in Scotland eventually forced him to recall Parliament.