Historical figures named James include several notable European kings, religious leaders, and cultural icons who shaped political and social developments. King James VI of Scotland also became King James I of England, unifying the crowns and commissioning an iconic English translation of the Christian Bible. In biblical history, James the son of Zebedee and James the brother of Jesus are prominent early Christian figures. Over the centuries, explorers, scientists, and statesmen named James have also left permanent marks on global history across various domains.