Treaty of Edinburgh–Northampton (1328)

Timeline

1. 1314–1327British Isles · BritainAfter the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314 Scotland gained the military advantage, but England long refused to recognize Bruce's claim to the throne. After Edward II was deposed in 1327, the Isabella–Mortimer regency, seeking to consolidate power, actively pursued peace with Scotland, creating the conditions for formal treaty negotiations.
2. 1328Northampton · EnglandOn March 17, 1328, the treaty was signed at Edinburgh by Scottish representatives; on May 4, the English Parliament formally ratified it at Northampton. The treaty confirmed Scottish independence and the legitimacy of the Bruce dynasty, provided for the release of prisoners of war and the return of certain lands, and arranged the marriage of Princess Joan, Edward III's sister, to Bruce's young son David.
3. 1328–1332Scottish-English border · BritainThe treaty was the first international document to confirm Scottish independence, a political victory for Bruce's years of struggle. However, England was generally dissatisfied with the peace; after Edward III assumed personal rule in 1330, he refused to recognize certain clauses as king, the Balliol restoration war broke out in 1332, and the peace effectively lapsed—but the idea of Scottish independence had gained international recognition.