| The beginning of James VI's personal reign where he assumes power, replacing the previous dominance of Regents and the nobility in government.
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| The Treaty of Berwick and League with England defines a formal alliance which was to last up to James's succession to the English throne.
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| Mary, Queen of Scots is beheaded, her death warrant signed by her cousin, Elizabeth I.
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| James VI marries Anne, daughter of Denmark's King Frederik II. He gives her Dunfermline Palace as a wedding gift.
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| James begins his persecution of suspected witches. He is present in the interrogation and torture of some.
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| A revolt involving the Earl of Huntly leads to the tower house of his residence, Huntly Castle, being destroyed by the King.
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| The King publishes book 'Daemonologie', an analysis of witchcraft. Shakespeare uses it as source material for Macbeth.
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| The future Charles I is born at Dunfermline Palace.
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| The Gowrie Conspiracy results in the death of the Earl of Gowrie, the son of the Earl involved in the Ruthven Raid. Dirleton Castle is amongst the property forfeited.
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| (24th March) Elizabeth I of England dies. James VI accedes to English throne. He is proclaimed King of England, Scotland and Ireland. The Kingdom of Great Britain is created.
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| (3rd April) James departs Scotland for England, promising to return every 3 years. He returns once.
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| (25th July) James VI crowned in Westminster Abbey.
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| New flag is designed for new nation.
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| The Gunpowder Plot to assassinate King James and destroy Parliament.
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| The first Authorised English Bible the King James Version is published.
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| James returns to Scotland for his only visit as king of Great Britain. He argues with the Scottish Church. |
