Final answer:
James I's struggles were chiefly caused by his foreign Scottish background and lack of understanding of English political norms. Strongly believing in the divine right of kings, he alienated the English Parliament, setting the stage for the tumultuous reigns of his successors, including James II.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct option : a
James I's problems as a ruler were predominantly due to his foreign upbringing and lack of familiarity with English politics. His foreign upbringing and lack of familiarity with English politics. James I came to power with a strong belief in the divine right of kings and expected to receive a generous annual allowance without the need for Parliament's approval. His Scottish background and his explicit assertion of king's prerogatives in 'The Trew Law of Free Monarchies' did not resonate well with the English Parliament or its people.
Moreover, his successors continued to exacerbate the situation. Charles I, in particular, worsened fiscal chaos and societal divisions by ignoring Parliaments and persecuting nonconformists, thus weakening the country both domestically and abroad. Consequently, when James II ascended the throne, he inherited a fragile England, which was deeply divided and had lost its leadership position in Europe due to the failures of James I and Charles I.