The Scottish monarchs tried to introduce the same kind of centralised
monarchy that the Tudors had so successfully developed in England. But it was
much harder, because the Scottish economy was weaker, and Scottish society more
lawless. However, James IV, James V, Mary who was executed by her cousin
Elizabeth of England, and her son James VI made important steps forward. They
tried to control the lawless border country with England, and the disobedient
Highland clans in the north. For the Scottish kings there was always a problem.
The most disobedient were often the best fighters, and no king wanted to make
enemies of those who might help him in battle against the English.
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