Dec 2, 2016
Queen of France and Return to Scotland
In April 1558, Francis and Mary were married
Francis became king in 1559, briefly uniting the French and Scottish crowns.
Francis died from an ear infection the year after he ascended to the throne, leaving Mary a widow at 18.
Mary returned to Scotland where she faced many challenges. As a Catholic queen in a country that was officially Protestant. Mary accepted the Protestant-led government and initially ruled with moderation
With help from her illegitimate half-brother, James, earl of Moray, Mary managed to rule while creating an atmosphere of religious tolerance.
