Lecture Notes: The First War of Scottish Independence

Overview

• Timeframe: 1296 - 1328
• Key Figures: William Wallace, King Edward I of England, Robert the Bruce

Battle of Stirling Bridge (September 1297)

• Leader: William Wallace
• Outcome: Significant Scottish victory
• Impact: Energized Scottish resistance, increased recruitment

Post-Stirling Bridge Events

• Wallace consolidated forces, secured alliances
• Conducted raids against English territories in Scotland
• Daring campaign into Northern England (Newcastle to Northumberland)

Political Developments

• Wallace appointed as Guardian of Scotland (contested)
• Guardianship involved governing Scotland in absence of a monarch
• King Edward I declared Scottish nobles traitors after their refusal to meet

Battle of Falkirk (July 22, 1298)

• Edward I's Army: 2,500 knights, 13,000-18,000 infantry
• Wallace's Tactics: Spearmen formations (schiltrons), strategic use of terrain
• Outcome: Heavy Scottish losses due to English longbowmen and cavalry
• Scottish Leaders: Sir John de Graham, Sir John Stewart (both killed)

Aftermath of Falkirk

• Wallace resigned as Guardian by December 1298
• Robert the Bruce succeeded Wallace as Guardian

Continuing Conflict

• Wallace's activities post-1299 are unclear; some suggest travel to France
• Resistance continued under Robert the Bruce, culminating in eventual Scottish independence

Conclusion

• Wallace executed in August 1305
• Robert the Bruce led successful rebellion, securing Scotland’s independence