Events after Bannockburn

Events After the Battle of Bannockburn

Introduction

The Battle of Bannockburn in 1314 was a pivotal event but not the conclusion of the Scottish quest for independence. Several significant events and strategic decisions followed, shaping the path toward freedom for Scotland.

Post-Bannockburn Developments

Political Landscape

• The win at Bannockburn bolstered support for King Robert the Bruce.
• Siege of Cupar forced lords with lands in both England and Scotland to choose allegiances.

Prisoners and Exchanges

• English lords captured at Bannockburn were held for ransom or exchanged
• The Earl of Hereford was exchanged for 15 prisoners, including Bruce's Queen, daughter, and sister.

Attacks into England

• Edward Bruce, King Robert's brother, led invasions into Northern England, further weakening Edward II's authority.

Irish Campaign

• Bruce attempted to open a second front by invading Ireland in the summer of 1315.
• Initial success but eventually lost momentum and Edward Bruce was killed in 1318.

Impact on English Military

• Scottish activities caused English military to divert their focus away from Scotland.

Important Documents

Declaration of Arbroath (1320)

• Statement of Scottish nationalism sent to Pope John XXII.
• Affirmed Bruce as the rightful king of Scotland.

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Events after Bannockburn

Treaty of Edinburgh (1328)

• Recognized Scotland as an independent state and Robert the Bruce as its king.
• David, Robert's son, would marry England's Princess Joan.

Leadership Changes and Settlement

Edward III's Ascension

• Edward III replaced his father Edward II in 1327, offering a window for negotiation.

Treaty of Edinburgh

• Signed on 17 March 1328, marking the formal recognition of Scotland's independence.

The Legacy

• Bruce died in 1329; his cause of death remains uncertain.
• The wars established a distinct Scottish identity and inspired later revolutions, such as in the USA.

Conclusion

The Battle of Bannockburn may be the most famous event in the Scottish Wars of Independence, but it was not the end. The post-Bannockburn years were filled with further military engagements, significant documents like the Declaration of Arbroath and the Treaty of Edinburgh, and key political changes, all contributing to the eventual independence of Scotland.