The last king of Scotland before the unification with England was James VI of Scotland, who became James I of England in 1603. His ascension marked the beginning of the Stuart dynasty's rule over both Scotland and England, following the death of Queen Elizabeth I. The union of the crowns brought Scotland and England into a closer political relationship, culminating in the formal unification of the two kingdoms in 1707. James VI's reign is notable for his attempts to promote peace, stability, and cultural growth, including the commissioning of the King James Bible, which remains significant in religious history.