The Auld Alliance is a historical term used to describe the close relationship established between Scotland and France in the late medieval period, notably codified through treaties aimed at mutual support against England. The treaty signed in Paris in 1295 set the stage for a series of military and economic collaborations between the two countries. Scotland, under pressure from English ambitions, recognized the need for an ally that could help counterbalance England's power. France, dealing with its own conflicts with England, found an ally in Scotland, facilitating an agreement that shaped their foreign policies for years.

The essence of the Auld Alliance was not merely a military venture but also encompassed cultural exchange and trade, laying a framework for interactions between the two nations that would flourish in various forms over the coming centuries. The signing of the treaty marked a critical pivot in Scottish diplomacy, as it expressed Scotland's intent to stand united with a powerful ally against England's domination. This mutual need for an ally became a foundational aspect of both nations' political strategies as they faced the continual threat posed by English sovereignty.

Over time, the Auld Alliance influenced various conflicts, including notable battles where troops from both countries fought side by side. The relationships fostered during this period contributed to Scotland's identity in the face of external pressures and established a legacy of friendship and cooperation that would resonate through European politics, influencing future generations.