John Knox

John Knox published this pamphlet attacking female rulers, specifically Mary Tudor and Mary of Guise. The work argued that women ruling over men was against divine law. It provoked controversy and influenced Protestant political thought across Europe.

John Knox led the Protestant faction that pushed through legislation establishing Presbyterianism in Scotland. The parliament abolished papal authority, banned the Mass, and adopted the Scots Confession. This created the Church of Scotland.

John Knox engaged in a series of private debates with Mary, Queen of Scots over religious authority. He defended Protestant doctrine against her Catholic position. The confrontations became legendary in Scottish history, symbolizing the clash between crown and kirk.