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The Stuarts
The succession of James I of Scotland following the death of Elizabeth I saw the beginning of the Stuart dynasty in England, which lasted from 1603 until 1707. A pivotal period, involving great social and political upheaval, including regicide, plague and revolution, it remains one of the most dynamic and fascinating in British history. Although beleaguered by internal and religious strife, and the large-scale English civil war, the Stuart period also witnessed a commercial revolution. Britain was rapidly growing Europe’s largest merchant fleet and trade increased. Advancements in coal mining and agriculture improved the standards of living for most, and the age of Enlightenment started to take hold.
From witch hunts to The Gunpowder Plot, and from the execution of Charles I to the Great Fire of London, the Stuart period is one of the most important periods in forming modern British society.
Learn more about the Stuarts
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The English Civil War and the rise of journalism
How did the English Civil War shape the evolution of journalism?
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A conflict beyond peacemakers: James I and the Thirty Years’ War
Historian John Matusiak discusses James I’s relationship with the Thirty Years’ War
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James I: England’s first Stuart monarch
In April 1603, James VI of Scotland began his journey south to become King James I of England
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Colonel Blood and the Crown Jewels
How an audacious Irishman pulled off a right royal heist
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No reconciliation, no address: King Charles I in exile
How Charles I’s foolish bargain with the Scots led to his downfall
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Sir Walter Raleigh: The last act
Walter Raleigh was executed on 29 October 1618
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How historically accurate is Outlander?
Does the time-travelling TV series portray fact or fiction?
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Thomas Venner and the Fifth Monarchists
An unsuccessful religious uprising against the crown in 1661
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The later diaries of Samuel Pepys
Pepys continued to write about his experiences after 1669
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James II: Will the real King of England please stand up?
James II, Britain’s last Catholic king
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Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot
Remember, remember the 5th of November
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Happy and Glorious, the Revolution of 1688
The overthrow of King James II of England
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House histories: Paramour Grange
The history of a Stuart house
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Why was Isaac Newton such a giant?
Mathematics, physics and the greatest breakthrough in the history of physical science
