Video - The Tragic Downfall of Mary, Queen of Scots

The Tragic Story of Mary, Queen of Scots Mary Stuart, born in 1542, became queen of Scotland when she was just six days old, but her reign was filled with tragedy. As a young queen, she was married off to the French Dauphin, but his death left her vulnerable. She returned to Scotland to rule, but her kingdom was torn apart by religious conflict and political turmoil. Her second marriage to Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley, was filled with tension and betrayal. Darnley was found murdered under mysterious circumstances, and Mary quickly married the prime suspect, James Hepburn, Earl of Bothwell, sparking outrage. The scandal led to her forced abdication in 1567, and she was imprisoned by her cousin, Elizabeth I of England. After 19 years in captivity, Mary was executed in 1587. Her tragic end was the result of love, betrayal, and her inability to navigate the deadly politics of her time.