The Treaty of Edinburgh: August 17, 1560
The Treaty of Edinburgh, ratified on August 17, 1560, by Mary, Queen of Scots, marked a pivotal moment in Scottish history, effectively ending the Auld Alliance between France and Scotland and leading to the withdrawal of French troops from Scotland. This treaty played a crucial role in the shifting political landscape of 16th-century Europe.
Background
The Auld Alliance, established in 1295, was a series of agreements between Scotland and France, primarily aimed at countering English influence. By the mid-16th century, this alliance had become a cornerstone of Scottish foreign policy. However, the Reformation and the rise of Protestantism in Scotland began to strain this relationship, as France remained staunchly Catholic.
The Context Leading to the Treaty
- Mary, Queen of Scots: Mary was married to Francis II of France, strengthening the Franco-Scottish alliance. However, Francis’s death in 1560 weakened France’s interest in Scottish affairs.
- Religious Tensions: The Protestant Reformation had gained significant ground in Scotland, leading to conflicts with the Catholic French forces stationed there.
- The Siege of Leith: In 1559-1560, English and Scottish Protestant forces besieged the French-held town of Leith, a key moment that pressured France to negotiate.
Key Provisions of the Treaty
- Withdrawal of French Troops: France agreed to withdraw its troops from Scotland, effectively ending its military presence.
- Recognition of Elizabeth I: The treaty required Mary to recognize Elizabeth I as the legitimate Queen of England, a significant political concession.
- Religious Autonomy: The treaty allowed Scotland to pursue its religious reforms without French interference, paving the way for the establishment of Protestantism as the dominant faith.
Aftermath and Significance
- End of the Auld Alliance: The treaty marked the formal end of the Auld Alliance, shifting Scotland’s foreign policy focus away from France.
- Rise of Protestantism: With French troops gone, the Protestant Reformation in Scotland gained momentum, leading to the establishment of the Church of Scotland.
- Anglo-Scottish Relations: The treaty improved relations between Scotland and England, setting the stage for future political developments, including the eventual union of the crowns in 1603.
The Treaty of Edinburgh was a turning point that not only altered Scotland’s international alliances but also had profound implications for its religious and political landscape. It underscored the complex interplay of dynastic politics, religious reform, and national sovereignty in the 16th century.
