David II of Scotland

David II, born on 5 March 1324, was the King of Scotland from 1329 until his death in 1371. He ascended the throne at five years old following his father Robert the Bruce’s death. Crowned at Scone in November 1331, he was the first Scottish monarch to be anointed during coronation. During his minority, David’s rule was overseen by guardians, and his early reign was marked by the Second War of Scottish Independence, instigated by Edward III of England’s support for Edward Balliol’s invasion. Post the Battle of Halidon Hill in 1333, David was exiled to France, returning to Scotland in 1341.

David’s reign was tumultuous, including his capture at the Battle of Neville’s Cross in 1346 during an invasion of England, leading to an eleven-year captivity. The Treaty of Berwick in 1357 ended his imprisonment, imposing a hefty ransom on Scotland. David’s efforts to nullify the ransom by offering succession to Edward III were rejected by the Scottish Parliament. Despite challenges, including failed attempts to produce an heir and tensions with his nephew and successor Robert II, David strengthened the monarchy and governance before his death in 1371.