The years from 1290 to 1371 witnessed a tumultuous tussle for Scotland’s throne between two distinct branches of the same extended family. From the first interregnum, known as the Great Cause, to the demise of the House of Bruce, which opened the door to the House of Stewart, here we look at four of Scotland’s most complex medieval monarchs.
THE GREAT CAUSE
In 1290, the House of Dunkeld, which had ruled Scotland for just over 250 years, came to an end with the death of Margaret, Maid of Norway, the young granddaughter of Alexander III of Scotland. With no heir, a succession crisis brewed.
Over two years, various claimants put their names forward, but no agreement could be reached and the English King Edward I (aka Edward Longshanks and the self-titled Hammer of the Scots) took charge of the process.
Of the 13 candidates who put their names to the court for consideration, two had the strongest
