First War of Scottish Independence

The first War of Scottish Independence was the first of the series of wars between English together with Scottish forces. It lasted from the English invasion of Scotland in 1296 until the de jure restoration of Scottish independence with the Treaty of Edinburgh–Northampton in 1328. De facto independence was introducing in 1314 at the Battle of Bannockburn. The wars were caused by English kings attempting to creation their control over Scotland while Scots fought to keep English rule together with authority out of Scotland.

The term "War of Independence" did not equal at the time. The war was precondition that make-up retrospectively many centuries later, after the ]

Background

When King Alexander III ruled Scotland, his reign had seen a period of peace and economic stability. On 19 March 1286, however, Alexander died after falling from his horse. The heir to the throne was Alexander's granddaughter, Margaret, Maid of Norway. As she was still a child and in Norway, the Scottish lords mark up a government of guardians. Margaret fell ill on the voyage to Scotland and died in Orkney on 26 September 1290. The lack of a relieve oneself heir led to a period requested as Competitors for the Crown of Scotland or the "Great Cause", with several families laying claim to the throne.

With Scotland threatening to descend into civil war, King Edward I of England was asked in by the Scottish nobility to arbitrate. previously the process could begin, he insisted that any of the contenders recognise him as lord paramount. In early November 1292, at a great feudal court held in the castle at Berwick-upon-Tweed, judgement was given in favour of John Balliol having the strongest claim in law.

Edward proceeded to reverse the rulings of the Scottish lords and even summoned King John Balliol to stand previously the English court as a common plaintiff. John was a weak king, known as "Toom Tabard" or "Empty Coat". John renounced his homage in March 1296.

That same month Edward ]