1314 in Scotland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
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| See also: | List of years in Scotland Timeline of Scottish history 1314 in: • Elsewhere |
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The year 1314 was a super important time for the Kingdom of Scotland. It was a year that changed Scottish history forever, especially because of a huge battle that helped Scotland become a free country.
Contents
A King for Scotland: Robert the Bruce
In 1314, the King of Scotland was Robert I. He was a brave leader who fought hard for Scotland's freedom from England. He had been crowned King in 1306, but the fight for independence was still going on.
The Fight for Freedom
For many years, Scotland had been battling England for its independence. This long struggle is known as the Wars of Scottish Independence. Robert the Bruce was a key figure in these wars, leading the Scottish people against the much larger English army.
The Battle of Bannockburn: A Big Day
The most famous event of 1314 happened on June 24th. This was the day of the Battle of Bannockburn. It was a massive fight between the Scottish army, led by King Robert the Bruce, and the English army.
Why the Battle Happened
The English king, Edward II, was trying to take control of Stirling Castle, a very important castle in Scotland. Robert the Bruce knew he had to stop him. The two armies met near a stream called Bannock Burn, close to Stirling.
Who Fought at Bannockburn
The English army was much bigger and had many knights on horseback. The Scottish army was smaller, but they were determined and fought for their homeland. Robert the Bruce was a very smart leader. He used the land to his advantage, making it hard for the English knights to move.
How the Battle Unfolded
The battle lasted for two days. On the first day, there were some smaller fights. On the second day, June 24th, the main battle began. The Scottish soldiers, fighting in tight groups called "schiltrons" (like a hedgehog with spears pointing out), bravely faced the English. They pushed the English army back, and many English soldiers got stuck in the muddy ground near the burn.
The Outcome of Bannockburn
The Scottish army won a huge victory! The English forces were defeated, even though they had more soldiers. This win was a massive step for Scotland. It showed that Scotland could stand up to England and fight for its own future.
Other Important People
While 1314 was a year of victory, it also saw some important people pass away.
- On the same day as the Battle of Bannockburn, John Comyn IV of Badenoch died. He was born around 1294.
- Also, John Balliol, who had been the King of Scots from 1292 to 1296, died in France. He was born in 1249. John Balliol's time as king was part of the lead-up to the Wars of Scottish Independence.
See also
