Battle of Falkirk & Resistance

The Battle of Falkirk

Introduction

The Battle of Falkirk, fought in 1298, was a pivotal moment in the Scottish Wars of Independence, marked by a confrontation between William Wallace's Scottish forces and King Edward I of England. Following the Scottish victory at Stirling Bridge, the battle came as a sharp contrast, ending in a Scottish defeat.

Build-Up to the Battle

• Wallace's Operations: After winning at Stirling Bridge, Wallace sought to solidify Scotland's independence by attacking England.
• Edward's Response: Angered by Wallace's actions, King Edward I led a large army north to deal with the Scottish threat.
• Location: The English discovered Wallace's location just north of Falkirk, courtesy of information from two Scottish nobles.

Battle Formations

• Scottish Position: The Scottish army took a position behind a marshy area, aiming to thwart a frontal assault by the English.
• English Flank Attack: The English cavalry successfully attacked the Scottish flanks, thereby avoiding the marsh.

The Battle's Outcome

• Scottish Retreat: Following heavy losses from English archer attacks, the Scottish forces retreated to Callendar Wood.
• Strategic Consequences: Stirling Town was burned to prevent capture, and the Scots found safety in Tor Wood.

Reasons for Defeat

• Cavalry: Though brave, the Scottish cavalry was outmatched.
• Tactics: Schiltrons, though formidable, were not mobile enough to adapt to changing battlefield conditions.
• Leadership: Wallace's tactical decisions were called into question, leading to his resignation as Guardian of Scotland.

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Battle of Falkirk & Resistance

Aftermath and Ongoing Struggles

• Diplomacy: Scots sought the Pope's support and worked on freeing John Balliol.
• Military Actions: Continued attacks on English garrisons and recovery of Northern Scotland.
• International Support: Loss of French support in 1303, after a treaty between England and France.

End of Wallace

• Obscurity: Wallace faded from prominence, and despite diplomatic efforts abroad, was eventually captured.
• Execution: Found guilty of treason, he was executed in 1305, and his body parts were displayed in various towns.

Conclusion

The Battle of Falkirk marked a critical point in the long struggle for Scottish independence. While ending in defeat for the Scots, the battle triggered important changes in military strategy and leadership, laying the groundwork for future resistance.