Changes

Rumors abounded that Elizabeth wished to retract the warrant, but being unaware of the Privy Council’s plans, her reprieve was too late. The Queen of England’s immediate threat was gone. When Elizabeth died without an heir, however, she passed the crown onto Mary’s only son. James VI of Scotland, became James I of England. Being separated from his mother since infancy allowed Protestant Lords to raise James according to the reformed religion. He would not pose a threat to England’s still delicate religious atmosphere. Mary’s kingdom, therefore, was not “lost” as some titles suggest. Her only son moved the Stuart reign into England, fulfilling Mary’s dream of claiming the English throne. At the same time, James upheld the wishes of his predecessor and was religiously tolerant. In the end, Elizabeth’s decision to end Mary’s life united their kingdoms.