Mary, Queen of Scots: Birth of a Legend (Part 1)

In this episode of "The Rest Is History," Dominic and Tom Holland delve into the life of Mary Queen of Scots, setting the stage with a dramatic depiction of her execution and highlighting her iconic status. They discuss her early life, rise to the throne of Scotland at one week old, time in France, and the controversies surrounding her reign, including questions of adultery, murder, and victimhood. The hosts emphasize the Anglo-Scottish dynamic, the Reformation's influence, and Mary's connection to European powers like France and Spain. They explore the political landscape of Scotland at the time of her birth, the challenges she faced as a female ruler, and the power plays between Scotland, England, and France, setting the scene for the events that would shape her life and reign.