Edward's Subjugation of Scotland

Initial Steps Towards Subjugation

After Scotland's alliance with France in 1296, Edward I of England was determined to bring Scotland under full English control. He sent a massive army north, possibly planning this even before Scotland's refusal to fight France.

The Attack on Berwick

• Importance: Berwick was a key trading port and Scotland's first point of defense.
• Defense: Despite being well-fortified and receiving Scottish reinforcements, Berwick fell.
• Outcome: The English army was ruthless; estimates suggest up to 15,000 townspeople were killed.

Siege of Dunbar

• Initial Control: The Earl of Dunbar initially gave the castle keys to the English, but his wife, a Comyn, turned it over to the Scots.
• Misjudgment: Scots misinterpreted English movement as a retreat and rashly attacked.
• Outcome: The better-trained English easily defeated the Scots, capturing or killing many nobles and Guardians.

Edward's March Through Scotland

Edward's army continued to move north, conquering several castles. Stirling Castle, a critical gateway to northern Scotland, was handed over without a fight.

Weaknesses in Balliol's Leadership

King John Balliol was notably absent in leading the Scots and ultimately surrendered to Edward, displaying a lack of effective leadership.

Surrender and Humiliation

• Location: Balliol surrendered at Stracathro Church in July 1296.
• Symbolism: Edward personally removed Scotland's royal badge from Balliol's surcoat, earning him the nickname "Toom Tabard" (empty coat).

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Edward's subjugation of Scotland

Captivity and House Arrest

Balliol and his son were sent to England, initially under house arrest, before being transferred to France under the custody of the Pope.

Confiscation of Symbols

Edward seized important Scottish symbols like the Stone of Destiny and the Black Rood of St. Margaret to further undermine Scottish sovereignty.

Oath of Allegiance: Ragman Rolls

In August 1296, around 1,600 Scottish nobles swore allegiance to Edward in Berwick, signing a document known as the Ragman Rolls, confirming Edward's full control over Scotland.

Conclusion

Edward's campaign in 1296 was systematic and brutal, effectively crippling Scotland both militarily and symbolically. His actions revealed major weaknesses in John Balliol's leadership and effectively brought Scotland under English control.