King+James+I

When Elizabeth I died without any children in 1603, her cousin King James VI of Scotland became king of England. He was given the title King James I. It was the first time that England, Scotland and Ireland were ruled under a single monarch. He became King of Scots as James VI on 24 July 1567, when he was just thirteen months old. He became king of England at the age of 36. He died from a fever in 1625. James I was highly intelligent and developed a love of learning. He enjoyed poetry and reading, and wrote two books. One was about the dangers of smoking and the other was about witchcraft called Daemonologie. James I was very interested in witchcraft and took part in the North Berwick witch trials in Scotland. James I also had an interest in plays. He became the patron of the King’s Men – the playing company that Shakespeare belonged to for most of his career. The main members of this company, including Shakespeare took part in King James’ coronation procession. They were each supplied with four and a half yards of red cloth for the procession.

//__ Quirky facts about the King: __// James I was known for his lack of manners. Some say that his tongue was too big for his mouth, which meant that he would always dribble on his clothes. Others said that he picked his nose with his thumb and forefinger. What a disgusting habit!

The Scottish king walked a bit bow legged and was known to be a drunkard. When he was a baby his nurse was a drunk, and as a result James I became an alcoholic.