Edward I

Edward I, born on 17/18 June 1239, became King of England in 1272, reigning until 1307. Known as Edward Longshanks and the Hammer of the Scots, he was also Lord of Ireland and ruled Gascony as Duke of Aquitaine. Before ascending the throne, he was involved in political intrigues during his father Henry III's reign, briefly supporting the Provisions of Oxford in 1259. He reconciled with his father and remained loyal during the Second Barons' War, escaping captivity after the Battle of Lewes and defeating Simon de Montfort at the Battle of Evesham in 1265.

Edward joined the Ninth Crusade to the Holy Land in 1270 and was informed of his father's death while returning home in 1272. He was crowned at Westminster Abbey in 1274. His reign focused on reforming royal administration and common law, investigating feudal liberties, and enacting statutes on criminal and property law. Militarily, he conquered Wales in 1282-83, establishing English rule and building castles and towns.

Edward was invited to arbitrate the Scottish succession dispute, leading to his claim of feudal suzerainty over Scotland and the First Scottish War of Independence. He also engaged in conflict with France over the Duchy of Gascony, which was eventually recovered. His military campaigns required high taxation, facing opposition in England, and in Ireland, he extracted resources, leaving instability. Edward's policies included the 1290 Edict of Expulsion, expelling Jews from England.

Edward I travelled north in 1307 to campaign against Robert the Bruce but fell ill with dysentery on the way and his condition worsened. On 6 July he encamped at Burgh by Sands, just south of the Scottish border. The next morning, 7 July 1307, he died in his servants’ arms.