Wars of Independence
The succession problem and the Great Cause
The death of Alexander III in 1286 plunged Scotland into a crisis of succession. As a result, Scotland came close to civil war and Edward I of England gained control of the country.
John Balliol and Edward I
John Balliol became King of Scotland in 1292. He was controlled by Edward I throughout most of his reign and was eventually removed from power in 1296, by the English king.
William Wallace and Scottish resistance
Scottish rebels led by William Wallace and Andrew Murray regained control of Scotland in 1297. However, the next year Edward I defeated the Scots at Falkirk and Wallace鈥檚 capture followed in 1305.
The rise and triumph of Robert Bruce
Bruce was crowned in 1306 despite little support. In the following years, he subdued his Scottish enemies and defeated the English at Bannockburn. By 1328, he had secured Scotland鈥檚 independence.
Video playlist
William Wallace. Video
William Wallace leads an army against King Edward of England.
The Battle of Falkirk. Video
William Wallace's men suffer a bloody defeat at the Battle of Falkirk.
The Battle of Stirling Bridge. Video
William Wallace's outnumbered Scottish army triumphs at the Battle of Stirling Bridge.
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