John de Soules (Guardian of Scotland)
John de Soules (died c. 1310) was a Scottish nobleman and soldier who served as one of the Guardians of Scotland during the Wars of Scottish Independence. He was a prominent figure in the resistance against English rule.
De Soules was descended from the prominent Soules family, who had held lands in Liddesdale and elsewhere in Scotland. His parentage is subject to some debate among historians, with suggestions including Nicholas II de Soules and William de Soules.
Following the deposition of John Balliol and the subsequent English occupation of Scotland, de Soules emerged as a key leader in the Scottish resistance. He was appointed as a Guardian of Scotland, likely sometime after the Battle of Falkirk in 1298, succeeding Robert the Bruce (later King Robert I). The other Guardians at this time included John Comyn and Bishop William Lamberton of St Andrews.
As Guardian, de Soules played a crucial role in maintaining the Scottish fight for independence. He worked to unite the various factions within Scotland and to secure foreign support. His efforts included diplomatic missions to France, seeking assistance from the French King. While in France, he sought support for John Balliol, who was still seen by many as the rightful King of Scots.
De Soules's guardianship was marked by periods of internal conflict and political maneuvering amongst the Guardians themselves. Despite these challenges, he remained a staunch defender of Scottish independence. His tenure ended with the appointment of Ingram de Umfraville as a fellow guardian, and shortly thereafter, with the return of Robert the Bruce to Scotland to claim the throne in 1306.
While details of his later life are scarce, John de Soules is believed to have remained in France following Bruce's ascension to the throne and may have died there around 1310. He is remembered as a significant figure in the early stages of the Wars of Scottish Independence and a dedicated Guardian of Scotland. His commitment to the cause of Scottish freedom solidified his place in Scottish history.