Maid of Norway dies in Orkney

September 26, 1290

The seven-year-old Margaret, heiress to the Scottish throne, fell ill and died at Orkney en route from Norway to her coronation and engagement to Edward of England. Her death left thirteen claimants contending for the Scottish crown and created the opening for Edward I's interference. Had she survived, the planned marriage would have peacefully united the crowns of Scotland and England three centuries ahead of schedule.