James V

James V of Scotland, reigning from 1513 to 1542, ascended the throne as an infant after the death of his father, James IV, at the Battle of Flodden. His early reign was marked by the regency of various guardians, leading to internal power struggles. Once he assumed full control, James worked to strengthen the monarchy, reduce the influence of the nobility, and foster ties with Catholic Europe, particularly through his alliances with France. His reign saw the culmination of the "Rough Wooing", a series of conflicts with England triggered by his refusal to entertain a marriage proposal between himself and Princess Mary of England. While he achieved some domestic reforms and strengthened Scotland's alliances abroad, his reign concluded on a somber note with the disastrous Battle of Solway Moss against England in 1542. James V died shortly after, leaving behind his infant daughter, Mary, Queen of Scots.