Queen Margaret Tudor of Scotland

Margaret Tudor, Queen of Scotland and a pivotal figure in the history of both England and Scotland, was born in 1489 and died in 1541. The eldest daughter of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York, she was sister to Henry VIII. Her marriage to James IV of Scotland in 1503, prompted by a peace treaty, united the English and Scottish royal houses. This alliance was foundational to the later Union of the Crowns.

Following James IV's death in 1513, Margaret served as regent for her young son. Her claim to this role was challenged, leading to periods where she secured and ceded power. She navigated complex alliances, including a second marriage that ended her regency. Later, she regained influence, acting as regent and then chief counsellor to her son as he approached maturity. Through her descendants, the Stuart dynasty eventually inherited the English throne.