John Balliol

John Balliol was a Scottish nobleman who became king of Scotland in 1292 amid political turmoil. His reign was short and troubled, marked by conflicts with England and internal Scottish factions. Under pressure from King Edward I of England, he was forced to accept English overlordship, which limited Scottish independence. His rule ended in 1296 when Edward I deposed him, leading to his exile. Despite his brief and challenging reign, Balliol's position highlighted the complex struggle for Scottish sovereignty during medieval times.