Is James I an Underrated King?

Podcast: Dan Snow's History Hit
Episode Release Date: July 24, 2025

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Dan Snow's History Hit, host Dan Snow explores the reign of King James I of England and VI of Scotland, questioning whether history has been unkindly judgmental or if James truly merits his underrated status. Joined by esteemed historian Anna Whitelock, they delve deep into James I's political maneuvers, cultural contributions, and the complexities of his legacy.

Public Perception of James I

Dan Snow opens the discussion by highlighting the stereotypical image of James I as an uncharismatic and pedantic monarch, often overshadowed by his illustrious predecessors, Mary, Queen of Scots, and Elizabeth I. He states:

"James and Charles... were subjected to an absolute tirade, an outpouring of anti-monarchical propaganda."
[02:46] Dan Snow

Anna Whitelock concurs, explaining that James has long been dismissed due to caricatures perpetuated by disgruntled courtiers like Anthony Weldon, who painted James as a "slobbering idiot" with a "lewd sense of humor." She adds:

"These are the clichés of the period... his tongue was too large for his mouth."
[04:11] Anna Whitelock

Early Life and Ascension to the Throne

Anna Whitelock provides a comprehensive overview of James I's early life, emphasizing his tumultuous childhood in Scotland. Born to Mary, Queen of Scots, James became king of Scotland as an infant after his mother's forced abdication. His early years were marked by survival amidst conspiracies, kidnappings, and political strife, shaping him into a shrewd and adaptable leader.

"He was quite a capable, agile manipulator of factions... pushing for Scotland to be recognized as a significant power in Europe."
[07:42] Anna Whitelock

Upon Elizabeth I's death, James ascended to the English throne without a formal handover, inheriting a kingdom weary from prolonged conflict, particularly the costly war with Spain.

Foreign Policy and Peace Efforts

One of James I's most notable achievements was brokering the Treaty of London in 1604, which ended the 18-year war with Spain. Anna highlights:

"James manages to bring to an end this big conflict, which was costly... Peace is achieved in the Treaty of London."
[13:13] Anna Whitelock

This peace not only alleviated economic hardships but also reopened trade routes with Catholic Europe, fostering cultural exchanges and economic growth. James envisioned a united Europe to counter threats like the Ottoman Turks, advocating for diplomatic rather than military solutions.

"He was talking up Britain's position... at a time when it really had no money."
[26:18] Anna Whitelock

Domestic Religious Policies

James I grappled with deep-seated religious tensions inherited from the Reformation. While he attempted religious reconciliation through initiatives like the Hampton Court Conference, which led to the King James Bible, his efforts were met with mixed reactions. Anna notes:

"The King James Bible... establishing the English language with all kinds of phrases we think of today."
[17:02] Anna Whitelock

However, his inability to fully appease both Catholics and radical Protestants sowed seeds of discord that would later contribute to political instability.

Cultural Contributions

Under James I, England experienced a flourishing of arts and culture reminiscent of the Elizabethan era. He was a patron of Shakespeare, who served as the "king's playwright," and supported elaborate court entertainments. Anna highlights the cultural renaissance:

"Shakespeare is absolutely the heart of the court... there was a flourishing of architecture and art, literature and drama."
[26:30] Anna Whitelock

James's support for the arts helped cement England's cultural legacy, setting the stage for future developments in literature and architecture.

Legacy and the Road to Civil War

Despite his successes, James I's reign laid the groundwork for future turmoil. His push for the divine right of kings and tensions with Parliament began to surface, exacerbated by unresolved religious conflicts. Anna explains:

"James's reign saw cracks emerging... the genie was out of the bottle in many ways."
[39:03] Anna Whitelock

The death of his elder son, Prince Henry, and the subsequent rise of his younger son, Charles I, who lacked James's diplomatic finesse, further destabilized the monarchy. The unchecked ambitions of figures like the Duke of Buckingham ultimately led to the English Civil War shortly after James's death.

Conclusion: Reevaluating James I's Reign

Dan Snow and Anna Whitelock conclude that while James I was often misconstrued as a weak and ineffective monarch, his diplomatic achievements and cultural patronage depict a more nuanced and capable leader. His inability to fully manage emerging political and religious tensions, however, made his reign a precursor to the English Civil War, suggesting that his legacy is a blend of both commendable achievements and underlying challenges.

"James was pretty pragmatic... he was seeking to forge his reputation as a politician and as a diplomat."
[26:18] Anna Whitelock

In reassessing James I, the episode encourages listeners to recognize his contributions to peace, culture, and the early formation of a unified British identity, presenting him as a monarch who was perhaps ahead of his time despite the eventual turmoil that followed.

Notable Quotes:

• Dan Snow: "James and Charles... were subjected to an absolute tirade, an outpouring of anti-monarchical propaganda." [02:46]
• Anna Whitelock: "These are the clichés of the period... his tongue was too large for his mouth." [04:11]
• Anna Whitelock: "He was talking up Britain's position... at a time when it really had no money." [26:18]
• Anna Whitelock: "Shakespeare is absolutely the heart of the court... there was a flourishing of architecture and art, literature and drama." [26:30]
• Anna Whitelock: "James's reign saw cracks emerging... the genie was out of the bottle in many ways." [39:03]

This comprehensive exploration sheds light on King James I's multifaceted reign, challenging preconceived notions and highlighting his role in shaping early modern Britain.