Mary Stuart, Countess of Lennox was a Scottish noblewoman born in 1540. She was the daughter of Matthew Stuart, 4th Earl of Lennox and Mary of Guise, making her a member of the prominent Stuart family. Mary was known for her beauty and intelligence, and she played a significant role in the political landscape of Scotland during her lifetime. In 1565, she married Henry Stuart, Lord Darnley, which strengthened her family's claim to the Scottish throne. However, their marriage was tumultuous, leading to Darnley's murder in 1567. Following this event, Mary was forced to abdicate in favor of her son, James VI of Scotland, marking a significant turning point in Scottish history.