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Treaty of Edinburgh-Northampton

The Treaty of Edinburgh-Northampton was a peace treaty signed in 1328 between the Kingdoms of Scotland and England. It brought an end to the First War of Scottish Independence, which had begun with the English invasion of Scotland in 1296. The treaty was a landmark achievement for Scotland, as it recognized its sovereignty and independence from England, and confirmed Robert the Bruce as its rightful king.

Both sides began negotiations in late 1327 under the mediation of France. The talks took place in Edinburgh Castle between Robert the Bruce’s representatives (his brother Edward Bruce, Thomas Randolph, James Douglas, and Bernard de Linton) and Edward III’s representatives (Henry de Beaumont, Henry Percy, and Robert Waterton).

After several months of discussions, they reached an agreement on 17 March 1328. The treaty consisted of four main points:

  • England recognized Scotland as an independent kingdom with Robert I as its lawful king.
  • Both sides agreed to renounce any claims or rights over each other’s territories or subjects.
  • Both sides agreed to release all prisoners taken during the war without ransom.
  • Both sides agreed to pay reparations for damages caused by their respective armies during their raids.

The Treaty of Edinburgh-Northampton marked a historic moment for both Scotland and England. For Scotland, it meant that it had finally achieved its long-sought goal of independence from English domination after more than three decades of war. It also meant that Robert I had secured his throne against any rival claimants or challengers.

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