John Balliol

John Balliol (c. 1249–1314), derisively called Toom Tabard, meaning Empty Coat, was King of Scots from 1292 to 1296. Edward I of England chose him as king, but treated Scotland as an English vassal.

In 1295 Balliol renounced his fealty and concluded the Auld Alliance with France. Edward invaded, and after the defeat of 1296 Balliol abdicated and was imprisoned in the Tower of London. He later retired to France and died there in 1314; his son Edward Balliol revived the claim.