Protestantism grew in Scotland in the 1560s and 1570s. Men such as George Wishart, John Knox and Andrew Melvillle played a significant role in its development.
James VI was brought up as a Protestant. He was intelligent and a good student.
As a young man, James was kidnapped by a group of Presbyterians who wanted to take control of the government. The Presbyterian Lords were led by William Ruthven who took control of Scotland for ten months. This became known as the Ruthven Raid.
However, following his escape in 1583, he gained control of Scotland for himself.