Why did Mary, Queen of Scots succeed James V of Scotland?
Inheritance as an infant, with regents governing. Daughter — James V's only surviving legitimate child, by Mary of Guise.
The short answer
James V died on 14 December 1542, six days after Mary's birth. She became queen at six days old. The Earl of Arran governed as regent, followed by her mother Mary of Guise; Mary herself was sent to France in 1548 and did not rule in person until 1561.
Who they were
Key points
- Queen at six days old
- Regents: the Earl of Arran, then Mary of Guise
- Henry VIII's attempt to betroth her to Edward VI led to the 'Rough Wooing'
Related family connections
- How were Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I of England related?
First cousins once removed - How were Henry VIII of England and Mary, Queen of Scots related?
Great-uncle and great-niece - How were Mary, Queen of Scots and Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley related?
Half first cousins
Sources
- Mary, Queen of ScotsAccession and regency
Explanation written and reviewed by HistorIQly · reviewed 2026-09-18. Part of the House of Stuart family tree. Background on Wikipedia.