Henry de Bohun facts for kids
Sir Henry de Bohun was an English knight who lived a long time ago. He is most famous for a dramatic event that happened on June 23, 1314. On this day, he was killed during the first part of a very important battle called the Battle of Bannockburn. He was fighting against King Robert the Bruce of Scotland.
Who Was Sir Henry de Bohun?
Sir Henry de Bohun was a brave English knight. He was part of a powerful family, being the nephew of Humphrey de Bohun, who was the Earl of Hereford. Knights like Sir Henry were important fighters in armies during the Middle Ages. They rode horses and wore armor.
The Battle of Bannockburn
The Battle of Bannockburn was a major conflict between England and Scotland. It took place near Stirling, Scotland, in 1314. This battle was a big part of the Wars of Scottish Independence, where Scotland fought to be free from English rule. King Robert the Bruce led the Scottish army, and King Edward II led the English forces.
A Famous Duel: De Bohun vs. The Bruce
On the first day of the battle, something incredible happened. Sir Henry de Bohun was riding at the front of the English army with his heavy cavalry (soldiers on horseback). He suddenly saw the Scottish king, Robert the Bruce, riding on a smaller horse. King Robert was only armed with a battle-axe, a large axe used for fighting.
Sir Henry, seeing a chance to end the battle quickly, lowered his lance (a long spear) and charged straight at the king. It was a very risky move for King Robert, but he didn't run away. Instead, he waited until the very last moment.
Just as Sir Henry's lance was about to hit him, King Robert quickly moved his horse to the side. He then stood up in his stirrups (the loops where a rider puts their feet) and swung his battle-axe with all his might. The axe hit Sir Henry de Bohun so hard that it split his helmet and his head. Sir Henry died instantly.
Even though King Robert had taken a huge risk, he wasn't worried about himself. He only expressed regret that he had broken the shaft of his favorite axe! This single combat became a famous story, showing the bravery and skill of King Robert the Bruce.
