The Stuart dynasty changed forever with King Charles I. His turbulent reign ended with his execution and the monarchy’s abolishment. However, he was never meant to be king. Who was meant to be the second Stuart monarch?

Prince Henry Frederick was born on 19 February 1594 at Stirling Castle to King James VI of Scotland and Queen Anne of Denmark. 

As heir to the Scottish throne, Henry had his own household and largely lived separately from his parents. His father was seriously concerned that his mother would attempt to convert him to Catholicism and so kept Henry separated from Anne. 

Upon the death of Queen Elizabeth I of England, everything changed. Elizabeth had left her throne to James VI of Scotland who moved south and became known as King James I. His royal family moved to England and his eldest son, Henry, became the Prince of Wales and heir to two thrones.

Despite religious and political tensions, the Prince was known to be lively and entertaining. He started playing sports at a young age, enjoying golf, tennis, riding, and billiards. 

The prince of Wales was also a talented dancer, often entertaining ambassadors and guests at court with his skill.

Prince Henry Frederick was considered to be a promising heir to his father and was often more popular than James.

However, tragedy struck. Henry fell ill in the autumn of 1612 and died on 6 November, taking the hope of the future with him. Historians believe that he most likely died of typhoid fever. 

Now heir to the throne, Prince Charles was chief mourner at his brother’s funeral; King James refused to attend. 

The lively and gregarious heir was replaced by a quiet and serious prince whose personality would play an immense role in his reign.