Bruce vs Balliol & Scottish appeals to Edward I - Description of Content - SC

Question 1

Balliol’s bitter rivalry

Answer 1

The Bruces and the Balliol’s bitter rivalry was at the centre of the succession crisis, and specifically the Award of Norham.

This was important as being two of Scotland’s most powerful noble families, their ongoing feud caused political instability.

Question 2

family trees

Answer 2

Both family trees can trace blood lines back to David I of Scotland. This was significant as both had genuine claims to the throne.

Therefore, both clans were convinced of their standing & were determined to press their claim rather than backing down.

Question 3

Balliols

Answer 3

The Balliols were aligned with Scotland’s most powerful family, the Comyns.

This was important as they commanded significant military forces with the potential to start a civil war throughout the Succession crisis.

Question 4

Bruces

Answer 4

The Bruces were aligned with James Stewart & Angus Og.

This was important as this alliance, The Turnberry Band, created a powerful defensive group which also had significant military forces with the potential to start a civil war.

Question 5

Balliol castles in the south-west.

Answer 5

Tension overspilled to small scale fighting - evidence that the Bruces attacked Balliol castles in the south-west.

This is important as the significant long-term damage confirmed the genuine threat of a full blown civil war.

Question 6

Bishop Bek.

Answer 6

The Balliols had a good relationship with Bishop Bek.

This was important as it prompted Bishop Fraser to appeal to Edward, as he was worried that Bek’s relationship with Balliol might threaten the independence of the Scottish Church.

Question 7

Edward’s reputation

Answer 7

Other competitors are also happy based upon c as a law maker.

Important because it unintentionally gave Edward I a legitimate excuse to start interfering in Scottish political affairs.

Question 8

scottish appeals

Answer 8

Appeals were wrote to edward I pleading him to intervene to prevent civil war in Scotland.

Important because would later lead to demands for recognition of his authority over the Scottish realm. In other words, Edward as overlord.