How were Elizabeth I of England and James VI and I related?
First cousins twice removed — through Margaret Tudor.
Why it matters
Henry VII married his daughter Margaret to James IV of Scotland in 1503. A century later that marriage made her great-grandson James the senior heir to the childless Elizabeth. The family tie explains James's claim; Robert Cecil's political preparation explains why it was accepted without a fight.
The line between them
- Elizabeth I of England1533–1603
daughter of
- Henry VIII of England1491–1547
son of
- Henry VII of England1457–1509
father of
- Margaret Tudor1489–1541
mother of
- James V of Scotland1512–1542
father of
- Mary, Queen of Scots1542–1587
mother of
- James VI and I1566–1625
Related successions
- Why did Elizabeth I of England succeed Mary I?
Inheritance under the Third Succession Act and Henry VIII's will - Why did James VI and I succeed Mary, Queen of Scots?
Forced abdication of the queen; infant king under successive regents - Why did James VI and I succeed Elizabeth I of England?
Inheritance by blood, secured by political preparation - Why did Charles I of England succeed James VI and I?
Inheritance
Sources
Connection reviewed by HistorIQly. Part of the House of Tudor family tree.