When James III was killed at Sauchieburn, his fifteen-year-old
son James IV succeeded him. He had been the rebels? assumed
figurehead, and for his indirect role in his father?s death
James decided to wear a heavy iron belt for the rest of his
life. A highly intelligent man, James IV proved an effective
ruler. He spoke many languages and took an interest in
literature, science and law. Determined to establish strong
central leadership he suppressed the Lordship of the Isles and
created a powerful navy. In 1503 he married the English king?s
daughter, Margaret Tudor, in an attempt to create peace between
the two countries. However, when England invaded France, James
felt obliged to assist his old ally. He confronted the English
army in 1513 but was killed in the disastrous battle of Flodden.