James VI I crowns united kingdoms separate states 1603

One king ruled England and Scotland while they remained separate countries

In 1603, James VI of Scotland inherited the English throne and became James I of England. The two kingdoms now shared a monarch but kept separate parliaments, legal systems and institutions. They did not become a single political state until the Acts of Union in 1707. Sharing a ruler was not the same as merging countries.

An epidemic killed most Native Americans in Massachusetts Bay

About 90%

Between 1617 and 1619, an epidemic killed about 90% of Native Americans in the Massachusetts Bay region. The disease was most likely smallpox, amid outbreaks brought by European colonists.

Madagascar has lost most of its original forest

More Than 90%

Since people arrived about 2,350 years ago, Madagascar has lost more than 90% of its original forest. Much of the loss is linked to tavy, a slash-and-burn farming practice that continues for its farming benefits and its ties to prosperity, health, and ancestral custom.

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James VI I crowns united kingdoms separate states 1603

One king ruled England and Scotland while they remained separate countries

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