Edward II

Edward II, also known as Edward of Caernarfon, was King of England from 1307 until his deposition in January 1327. He was the fourth son of Edward I and became the heir to the throne after the death of his older brother Alphonso. His early years included accompanying his father in Scottish campaigns and being knighted at Westminster Abbey in 1307. He married Isabella of France in 1308, aiming to ease tensions between England and France.

Edward’s rule was marked by his controversial relationship with Piers Gaveston and struggles with the barons, leading to the Ordinances of 1311 and Gaveston’s execution in 1312. After a military defeat at Bannockburn in 1314 and the famine that followed, Edward faced criticism for his governance. The Despenser family’s influence and the execution of the Earl of Lancaster further alienated the barons. Edward’s reign ended when Isabella and Roger Mortimer invaded England in 1326, leading to his capture and abdication in favor of his son, Edward III.