Mary Stuart - Bad Decisions and a Lost Throne

Mary, Queen of Scots had a good first marriage, but it ended when her young husband - Francis II, King of France - died. She returned to her homeland, but her life there was difficult. Among other reasons, Mary made some very bad decisions.

As her second marriage (to Lord Darnley) foundered, Mary gave birth to their son - James. While still an infant, he become King James VI (of Scotland) after his mother was forced to abdicate her right to the Scottish throne.

Later, after Elizabeth I died, Mary's son also became James I (of Britain).

This clip is from A History of Britain, hosted by Simon Schama.