In the early 1600’s, the English court was filled with conflict and unease as everyone was well aware the Elizabeth had no legitimate heirs, and that she was the last of her family. In 1603 the throne was then given to the King of Scotland, James VI – and he became James I of England. It was at this time that the Kingdoms of England and Scotland shared a monarch.
On this day May 1st, in 1707, Great Britain is formed upon the unification of England, Wales, and Scotland. It had been tried numerous times since James I had ascended to the throne to unite England and Scotland specifically, and on this day two acts were passed. The Union with Scotland Act, and the Union with England Act, were both passed to create Great Britain.
Queen Anne was the one who was on the throne at this time. Much like Elizabeth I, she did not have any surviving heirs, although it has been documented that she had over 10 pregnancies. She was the last member of the House of Stuart to rule, and it then passed to the Hanovers, with whom the American colonists would wage their war of independence.