As an expert in British history, I can provide a detailed account of the succession following Queen Elizabeth I's reign. Queen Elizabeth I, known for her significant contributions to England's cultural and political landscape, passed away on 24 March 1603 at Richmond Palace. Her death marked the end of the Tudor dynasty, as she had no direct heirs. The crown then passed to her closest living relative, James VI of Scotland, who became James I of England. James I was the son of Mary, Queen of Scots, making him Elizabeth's first cousin once removed. His ascension to the English throne was facilitated by the Act of Succession passed by Parliament in 1601, which named him as Elizabeth's successor. This act was crucial because it helped to avoid a power struggle and ensured a smooth transition of power. James I's reign was notable for several reasons. He was the first monarch to rule both England and Scotland simultaneously, although the two countries remained separate entities. His reign was marked by religious conflicts, as he sought to establish religious uniformity in his kingdoms. James I was a proponent of the Divine Right of Kings, which posited that monarchs derived their authority directly from God, and he often clashed with Parliament over issues of power and authority. One of James I's most significant contributions to English history was the sponsorship of a new translation of the Bible, known as the King James Bible. This translation, completed in 1611, played a pivotal role in shaping the English language and remains a significant religious text to this day. James I's reign also saw the rise of literature and the arts. The period is often referred to as the beginning of the Golden Age of English drama, with playwrights such as William Shakespeare and Ben Jonson flourishing under his patronage. However, James I's reign was not without its challenges. His extravagant spending and belief in the Divine Right of Kings often put him at odds with Parliament. The conflicts between the monarchy and Parliament during his reign laid some of the groundwork for the English Civil War that would occur later in the 17th century. In terms of foreign policy, James I pursued a policy of peace, seeking to avoid costly wars. However, his pacifist stance was not always popular, particularly among those who believed in a more aggressive approach to foreign affairs. James I's reign came to an end with his death on March 27, 1625. He was succeeded by his son, Charles I, whose reign would be marked by escalating tensions with Parliament, ultimately leading to the English Civil War and a temporary abolition of the monarchy. In summary, Queen Elizabeth I was succeeded by her cousin, James VI of Scotland, who became James I of England. His reign was a formative period in English history, with lasting impacts on religion, literature, and the relationship between the monarchy and Parliament. read more >>

Elizabeth died at Richmond Palace on 24 March 1603. The Protestant King of Scotland James VI became King of England. He was the son of her cousin Mary, Queen of Scots. Elizabeth I was the last Tudor monarch, and reigned for 44 years.read more >>