Baldwin III of Jerusalem vs Edward II of England

Baldwin III was crowned King of Jerusalem at age 13, but his mother Melisende served as regent. This arrangement led to a power struggle that culminated in Baldwin asserting his independence in 1152.

Baldwin III led a campaign to capture the Fatimid fortress of Ascalon, the last major Muslim stronghold on the Palestinian coast. After a five-month siege, the city fell, securing the southern border of the Kingdom of Jerusalem and opening trade routes.

Baldwin III married Theodora Komnene, a niece of Byzantine Emperor Manuel I Komnenos. This alliance strengthened ties between Jerusalem and the Byzantine Empire, securing Byzantine support for crusader campaigns.

Baldwin III died at age 33, possibly from malaria or poisoning. His death without a direct heir led to the succession of his brother Amalric I, and marked the end of a period of relative stability for the Kingdom of Jerusalem.

Under baronial pressure, Edward II agreed to the Ordinances of 1311, which limited royal power and exiled his favorite Piers Gaveston. This reform was later annulled, but it highlighted baronial discontent.

Edward II's favorite Piers Gaveston was captured and executed by barons led by Thomas of Lancaster. This act deepened the rift between the king and the nobility, leading to further instability.

Edward II led an English army against Robert the Bruce at the Battle of Bannockburn. The Scots decisively defeated the English, securing Scottish independence and humiliating Edward's reign.

Edward II was deposed by his wife Isabella of France and her lover Roger Mortimer. He was forced to abdicate in favor of his son Edward III, and later murdered at Berkeley Castle, likely on orders.