← Alexander III of Scotland died after crossing the river Forth to Fife at Queensferry.
Sweetheart Abbey, near Dumfries, founded by Devorguilla, mother of John Balliol →
- March 19, 1286
Margaret, known as the Maid of Norway, was never officially crowned, but she was recognized as the rightful heir to the Scottish throne. Born in 1283, Margaret was the daughter of King Erik II of Norway and Margaret of Scotland, making her a direct descendant of Alexander III of Scotland. Her grandfather’s death in 1286 left Scotland without a clear heir, and Margaret, being his only surviving legitimate descendant, became the heir presumptive to the Scottish throne at just a few years old.
Her ascension to the throne was agreed upon by the Scottish nobility and confirmed by the Treaty of Birgham in 1290, which stipulated her marriage to Edward of Caernarfon, the future Edward II of England. This arrangement aimed to secure peace between Scotland and England, but Margaret’s reign was brief and largely nominal.
Tragically, Margaret died in 1290 at the age of seven while en route from Norway to Scotland. Her death precipitated a succession crisis in Scotland, leading to the Competitors for the Scottish Crown and eventually to the Wars of Scottish Independence. The absence of a clear heir after her death left a power vacuum that Edward I of England sought to exploit, leading to his eventual assertion of overlordship over Scotland.
Margaret’s death marked a significant turning point in Scottish history, as the ensuing period of instability directly contributed to the long struggle for Scottish independence. Despite her potential importance, Margaret’s never having been crowned or having set foot in Scotland as its monarch makes her a unique figure in the annals of Scottish royalty.