John Balliol was a Scottish nobleman who became King of Scotland in 1292. He was chosen as a compromise candidate after a dispute over the Scottish throne, which involved several claimants. His reign was marked by challenges, including conflicts with the powerful Edward I of England, who sought to exert control over Scotland. Balliol's rule was short-lived, as he faced pressure from both the English and Scottish nobles. In 1296, he was forced to abdicate after being defeated by Edward I at the Battle of Dunbar. Following his abdication, Balliol spent much of his life in England, where he lived in relative obscurity until his death around 1314.