John Balliol

John Balliol, born around the year 1249, ascended to the throne as King of Scots in 1292, a period marked by political turmoil and external pressures. His reign, however, was short-lived, lasting only until 1296. Little is documented about his early years, but his selection as king came during a contentious interregnum following the death of Margaret, Maid of Norway. A group of noblemen, influenced by King Edward I of England, chose Balliol to lead Scotland.

Despite his royal title, Balliol's authority was severely undermined by Edward I, who treated Scotland as a vassal state. This dynamic forced Balliol into a precarious position, leading him to sign the