Robert II of Scotland ruled as king from 1371 to 1390. Born Robert Stewart, he succeeded the heirless David II of Scotland (r. 1329-1371) and so founded the royal house of Stewart. Dividing Scottish estates between his many offspring, Robert redrew the political map of his kingdom and effectively replaced half of the nobility with his family and allies, a process often called the 'Stewartisation' of Scotland. Although a more capable leader in his youth than medieval historians liked to portray him, Robert's reign did witness a decline in the wealth of the Crown and the creation of bitter rivalries amongst the great baronial families which would cause no end of problems for his successor, his son Robert III of Scotland (r. 1390-1406).
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Definition
Timeline
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2 Mar 1316Robert Stewart, future Robert II of Scotland, is born.
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1327Robert Stewart, future Robert II of Scotland, inherits from his father the title of High Steward of Scotland.
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1329 - 1371Reign of David II of Scotland.
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19 Jul 1333Edward III of England wins a victory against the Scots loyal to David II of Scotland at the Battle of Halidon Hill.
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May 1334David II of Scotland flees to France after Edward Balliol declares himself king for a second time.
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1336Edward Balliol is removed from the Scottish throne by Robert Stewart and barons loyal to David II of Scotland.
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1336Robert Stewart, future Robert II of Scotland, marries his mistress Elizabeth Mure.
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Jun 1341David II of Scotland returns to Scotland from exile in France.
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1346 - 1357Robert Stewart, the King's Lieutenant, rules Scotland on behalf of David II of Scotland.
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17 Oct 1346An English army defeats the Scots at the Battle of Neville’s Cross near Durham and captures David II of Scotland.
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1355Robert Stewart, future Robert II of Scotland, marries his second wife, Euphemia, Countess of Moray.
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Oct 1357 - Nov 1357The Treaty of Berwick between England and Scotland releases David II of Scotland from his captivity under Edward III of England.
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1363Robert Stewart launches an unsuccessful coup against David II of Scotland.
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1371 - 1390Reign of Robert II of Scotland.
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22 Feb 1371David II of Scotland dies in Edinburgh Castle.
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26 Mar 1371Robert II of Scotland is crowned at Scone Abbey.
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1373Robert II of Scotland ends direct taxation.
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19 Apr 1390Robert II of Scotland dies at Dundonald Castle.
