Margaret Tudor

Margaret Tudor was born on 28 November 1489 in the Palace of Westminster, London, as the eldest daughter of King Henry VII of England and Elizabeth of York. She became Queen of Scotland through her marriage to King James IV on 8 August 1503, which lasted until his death on 9 September 1513. Margaret played a significant role in Scottish politics, serving as regent during her son’s minority and actively participating in the power struggles of the Scottish nobility. Her personal life was marked by three marriages, with her first and second unions producing significant offspring that would impact the history of both Scotland and England. Margaret died on 18 October 1541 at Methven Castle, Perthshire, Scotland.

Her marriage to James IV was a political alliance that brought the kingdoms of England and Scotland closer, and following her husband’s death at the Battle of Flodden, Margaret’s role expanded to regent for their son, James V. She faced challenges from pro-French factions and struggled to maintain her regency, resulting in a temporary replacement by John, Duke of Albany. Margaret’s determination to reclaim power led to a coup d’état with the aid of the Hamiltons, reinstating her influence in Scottish governance. Despite her efforts to secure her position and the future of her son, her political maneuvers often led to alliances and conflicts with various noble families, including her marriage to the Earl of Angus and later to Henry Stewart, 1st Lord Methven.