Robert II was born in 1316 as the son of Walter Stewart, the High Steward of Scotland, and he ascended to the throne following the death of his cousin, King David II, who had no surviving heirs. The ceremony took place at Scone Abbey, a traditional site for Scottish coronations, where the Stone of Scone was historically used to symbolize the monarchy. Robert's lineage was vital, as he was a direct descendant of the ancient Scottish kings, which lent his claim additional legitimacy in a period marked by dynastic struggles following the War of Scottish Independence.The ascension of Robert II initiated the Stuart dynasty, which played a transformative role in the history of Scotland and, eventually, the entire British Isles. The early years of his reign saw the continuation of political instability due to ongoing conquests and familial claims to the throne by rival factions. Hence, Robert II's rule was characterized by efforts to strengthen royal authority and stabilize the kingdom, despite persistent challenges from both internal strife and external threats, including the continuing hostilities with England.The Stuart dynasty would go on to influence everything from Scottish culture to politics, culminating in significant historical events, including the union of the crowns in 1603 and the eventual unification of England and Scotland in the 18th century. Robert II's reign, while fraught with challenges, laid down the foundations for a lineage that would see both remarkable advancements and significant conflicts in the centuries to follow.