Robert Bruce

Bruce, Robert (d. 1304). Eldest son of Robert Bruce (d. 1295) and father of Robert I. His marriage to Marjorie, widow of Adam of Kilconquhar, brought him the earldom of Carrick —a promotion which involved the Bruces in rivalry with their neighbour John Balliol, lord of Galloway. Bruce-Balliol rivalry intensified when Robert's father and John Balliol were the main challengers for the Scottish throne in 1291-2. When Balliol was enthroned, Robert refused to recognize him. After the English victory at Dunbar (27 April 1296), he asked for the Scottish throne—a request to which Edward famously responded: ‘Have we nothing else to do but win kingdoms for you?’ Despite this rebuff, Robert remained in the English allegiance until his death.