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John of Scotland facts for kids

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John Balliol (John I)
King of Scotland
Reign 1292 - 1296
Predecessor Margaret of Scotland (r. 1286 - 1290) or Alexander III (r. 1249 - 1286)
Successor Robert I of Scotland
Born c. 1247-1249
possibly Buittle, Scotland or Picardy, France
Died possibly January/February 1315 (aged c. 64-66)
Chateau de Helicourt, Picardy
John Balliol
King John as depicted in the 1562 Forman Armorial, produced for Mary, Queen of Scots.

John Balliol, also known as John de Balliol, was a King of Scots. He ruled from 1292 to 1296. He was born around 1247-1249. His exact birthplace is not fully clear. He is an important figure in Scottish history.

Becoming King of Scotland

After Margaret of Scotland died in 1290, there was no clear ruler. Many people wanted to become the next king. John Balliol was one of the main people hoping to get the crown.

King Edward I of England was asked to help decide. He chose John Balliol to be the new King of Scotland. John was crowned at Scone on November 30, 1292. This day is also known as St. Andrew's Day.

Challenges to His Rule

King Edward I of England wanted to have power over Scotland. He tried to control King John Balliol. Edward treated John like a "puppet king." This meant John had little real power. The Scottish people were not happy about this. They wanted their king to be truly independent.

This disagreement led to serious conflict. In 1296, there was a major battle at Dunbar. King Edward's army attacked the town of Berwick. Many lives were lost during this event. The Scottish forces were defeated at Dunbar.

End of His Reign

After the defeat at Dunbar, King John Balliol lost his power. King Edward I removed him from the throne. John was forced to give up his crown. He was then sent away to France. He lived there for the rest of his life. John Balliol died around 1314 or 1315.


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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Juan de Balliol para niños

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