(1239-1307), king of England, son of Henry III, whom he succeeded in 1272. Before his accession to the throne he had been compelled to put down several revolts in Wales, which had been entrusted to his government. He also took part in a crusade with Louis IX of France, but accomplished nothing of importance. After his accession, he again turned his arms against Wales and finally succeeded in annexing that country to England. During the greater part of his reign he was engaged in a struggle for Scotland, and the choice of him as judge between the rival claims of John Baliol and Robert Bruce gave him a hold on the country. With varying fortunes the struggle continued until 1306, when Robert Bruce, a grandson of the rival of Baliol, was crowned at Scone. Edward started north to subdue Bruce, but died on the way. Edward was a great king and did much for England in the establishment of order in the country and in the restriction of the power of the clergy. For his influence on the laws of his country he is known as "the English Justinian." The most important event of his reign is the placing in the hands of a Parliament, in which the people of England were to be represented, all power to levy taxes.