Robert the Bruce Murdered Red Comyn

Robert the Bruce, who killed John Comyn, commonly known as the Red Comyn, in 1306. The event took place at the Greyfriars Church in Dumfries, Scotland.

The background to this event is complex and tied to the struggle for the Scottish crown during the Wars of Scottish Independence. Both Robert the Bruce and John Comyn were claimants to the Scottish throne. Bruce had been involved in a power struggle with the Comyn family, who were powerful nobles in Scotland.

According to historical accounts, Robert the Bruce met with John Comyn at the Greyfriars Church in Dumfries to discuss their rival claims to the throne. It’s believed that during this meeting, an argument broke out between the two men, which escalated into a physical altercation. In the course of the argument, Robert the Bruce stabbed John Comyn, mortally wounding him.

The killing of John Comyn at the Greyfriars Church is a pivotal event in Scottish history and in the personal story of Robert the Bruce. It solidified Bruce’s claim to the Scottish throne and marked a decisive turning point in the Wars of Scottish Independence.

However, the killing of John Comyn also had significant consequences for Robert the Bruce. He was excommunicated by the Pope for the murder, and he faced years of conflict and opposition from other Scottish nobles who questioned the legitimacy of his claim to the throne.

Despite these challenges, Robert the Bruce eventually emerged victorious and was crowned King of Scots in 1306. He went on to lead Scotland to independence from English rule, securing his place as one of Scotland’s most celebrated historical figures.