David II

David II, son of Robert the Bruce, ruled as King of Scotland from 1329 to 1371. Ascending the throne as a child after his father's death, David's early reign was marked by the Second War of Scottish Independence, during which he was forced into exile in France. Returning to Scotland in 1341, he was captured by the English at the Battle of Neville's Cross in 1346 and remained imprisoned for eleven years. Released in 1357 after the Treaty of Berwick, David spent the remainder of his reign attempting to consolidate power and strengthen Scotland's finances, often facing opposition from his nobles. His rule, while characterized by political challenges and external threats, ultimately saw Scotland maintain its sovereignty in the face of English ambitions. David II's death without heirs led to the ascent of the House of Stewart to the Scottish throne.