James V of Scotland was born on April 10, 1512, and became king at just 17 months old after the death of his father, James IV. His reign lasted from 1513 until his death in 1542, marked by efforts to strengthen the Scottish monarchy and resist English influence. During his rule, James V faced challenges from both internal factions and external threats, particularly from Henry VIII of England. He is known for his patronage of the arts and his attempts to reform the church, but his reign ended with his defeat at the Battle of Solway Moss in 1542, shortly before his death.