James I of Scotland

James I was captured by English pirates while traveling to France for safety. He was handed over to Henry IV of England and imprisoned in the Tower of London, remaining a captive for 18 years. His father Robert III died soon after, leaving Scotland without a king.

James I was released from English captivity after the Treaty of London, which required a ransom of 40,000 pounds. He returned to Scotland and was crowned at Scone, beginning his personal rule after 18 years of regency.

James I wrote The Kingis Quair, a poetic allegory of his imprisonment and love for Joan Beaufort. The poem is considered a major work of Middle Scots literature and reflects the influence of Chaucer on Scottish poetry.

James I executed Murdoch Stewart, Duke of Albany, and his sons at Stirling Castle for treason. The executions eliminated the powerful Albany family, who had ruled as regents during James's captivity, and consolidated royal power.

James I was assassinated by a group of nobles led by Sir Robert Graham at the Blackfriars monastery in Perth. The murder was a response to James's centralizing policies and harsh treatment of the nobility. His death plunged Scotland into another period of regency.