Robert III of Scotland

Robert III of Scotland, born in 1330, was the eldest son of King Robert II and Elizabeth Mure. He was legitimized through his parents' second marriage and papal dispensation in 1349. His political journey began with a rebellion against his great-uncle David II in 1363, although he soon submitted to David's authority. By 1367, Robert was married to Annabella Drummond, and in 1368, he was created Earl of Carrick.

Following the unexpected death of King David II in 1371, Robert's father ascended the throne, and Carrick became a significant figure in the governance of Scotland. However, he grew increasingly impatient with his father's long reign. In 1384, he was appointed the king's lieutenant, successfully persuading the council to remove Robert II from direct rule. His administration was marked by a resurgence of conflict with England, culminating in the Scottish victory at the Battle of Otterburn in 1388, despite Carrick suffering a severe injury.

In 1390, upon the death of Robert II, Carrick ascended the throne as Robert III, yet he lacked the authority to govern directly. His younger brother, Robert, Earl of Fife, continued as Lieutenant until 1393, when power was shared with Robert's son, David. However, Robert III's health declined, and he withdrew from state affairs, becoming increasingly powerless as disputes arose between Albany and Rothesay, leading to the latter's tragic imprisonment and death in 1402.

Robert III's reign was further complicated by the imprisonment of his only surviving son, James, Earl of Carrick, who was captured while attempting to escape to France in 1406. The king's death shortly after learning of his heir's fate marked the end of a tumultuous period in Scottish history, characterized by internal strife and the struggle for power among the Stewart family.