Mary, Queen of Scots

Mary Stuart, Queen of Scotland, the daughter of James V of Scotland and Mary of Guise, did not take the throne until 1561 when she turned 18, although she became queen at less than a week of age. Known for her devout Catholicism in a Protestant kingdom, Mary's charm and wit are said to have won over many lords and nobles. She faced strong opposition from her critics for claims of sexual promiscuity, a frequent challenge of a woman's ability to rule, which appeared to be supported by Mary's three marriages. Her marriage to Lord Darnley (Henry Stuart) in 1565 produced a son, James VI of Scotland (1567–1625), later crowned James I of England. James would later succeed Queen Elizabeth I of England.