Battle of Bannockburn

The Battle of Bannockburn Notes

Introduction

The Battle of Bannockburn, fought between 23-24 June 1314, stands as a defining moment in the Scottish Wars of Independence. Under the leadership of King Robert the Bruce, the Scots aimed to reclaim Stirling Castle and solidify their autonomy. In contrast, King Edward II led the English forces, who were keen on maintaining control over Scottish lands. This note aims to describe the key events and identify the reasons why the Scots emerged victorious in this significant battle.

Context and Background

Before the battle commenced, King Robert the Bruce had been making progress in reclaiming Scottish territory. The siege of Stirling Castle became the immediate focus. Sir Philip Mowbray, the castle's governor, had agreed to cede control of the castle to Bruce by Midsummer Day 1314 unless English reinforcements arrived. This prompted Edward II to move northward with an army.

The English forces were significant in number, estimated to include around 2,000 mounted knights and thousands of foot soldiers and archers. Despite their numerical advantage, the English army was disorganized and hampered by poor leadership. On the other side, the Scottish army was smaller, about 5,000 strong but highly professional and strategically prepared. They were divided into three schiltrons, which were compact bodies of troops equipped mainly with long spears or pikes.

The Two Days of Battle

First Day: 23rd June

The battle started somewhat accidentally. Bruce was still evaluating the English army's size when a small English scout force encountered him. A dramatic duel unfolded between Bruce and the English knight Henry de Bohun, culminating in Bruce's victory. The day ended with failed initial engagements for the English, leading to a drop in morale.

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Battle of Bannockburn

Second Day: 24th June

The Scots took up positions and began the day with a prayer, which Edward II misinterpreted as a sign of surrender. The English, poorly positioned, found themselves unable to effectively deploy their archers. When both armies clashed, the boggy ground hindered the English cavalry, while the Scottish schiltrons held their ground. At a crucial moment, Bruce ordered a Scottish reserve force, the 'sma' folk', to attack the English archers, turning the tide decisively in the Scots' favor.

Outcome and Implications

The English army was forced to retreat, and many soldiers drowned in the Bannockburn stream while fleeing. Edward II narrowly escaped and sought shelter at Stirling Castle, where he was turned away. The Scots regained Stirling Castle and achieved a significant morale boost that influenced later events in the Scottish Wars of Independence.

Why the Scots Won

• Strategic Planning: Bruce chose an advantageous battle site and prepared his army well.
• Tactical Excellence: The effective use of schiltrons and a reserve force proved decisive.
• English Errors: Poor leadership, disorganization, and low morale plagued the English forces.

Conclusion

The Battle of Bannockburn marked a turning point in the Scottish struggle for independence. Through superior tactics, strong leadership, and battlefield innovation, the Scots managed to defeat a larger and seemingly more formidable English army. This battle showcased the importance of preparation, morale, and effective strategy in determining the outcome of a conflict. The lessons learned from Bannockburn continue to be studied as examples of military strategy and leadership.