Henry, prince of Wales

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Henry, prince of Wales (1594–1612). Eldest son of James VI and I and Anne of Denmark, born at Stirling but immediately entrusted to the earl of Mar's guardianship. Following his father to England in June 1603, he impressed the crowds by his fine horsemanship and erect bearing. He had absorbed the precepts laid down in his father's Basilikon doron, which not only stressed the patriarchal nature of kingship but encouraged self-restraint and modesty, only to find himself critical of its author's own behaviour. His promise and popularity, despite an element of priggishness, occasioned jealousy in James; championship of Ralegh, dislike of the royal favourite Carr, and naval and military interests further increased tension. Marriage plans were overtaken by his sudden death from typhoid fever, leaving his less-gifted brother Charles as heir. Though he has been seen as the hope of England, this is mere speculation.

A. S. Hargreaves

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Henry, prince of Wales

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