Rise and Thriaph of Robert Bruce

Question 1

Death of Edward I

Answer 1

He died at Burgh on Sands on 6 July 1307 aged 68.

This was important because his death allows Bruce to proceed without his main enemy standing in the way

Question 2

The Ascension of Edward II

Answer 2

Edward II the much weaker king than his father and he did not have the full support of the English nobility and had to get them on his side.

This was important because he had English problems which allow Bruce to deal with his Scottish enemies

Question 3

Inverurie/Buchan

Answer 3

King Robert led his troops against the Comyn forces commanded by the Earl of Buchan at the Battle of Inverurie, near Oldmeldrum.

This was important because established the dominance of Bruce against his key Scottish enemy the Comyns. It was also important as it added to his growing reputation as a formidable military leader.

Question 4

The support of the Scottish church

Answer 4

Most Scottish bishops supported Bruce as they saw him as the best hope of securing the independence of the kingdom which would ensure the independence of the Scottish Church.

This was important because in a time, and a country, that was deeply religious, any legitimate monarch had to have the support of the Church if they were going to have any authority and credibility. So, their Declaration allows Bruce the support to continue with legitimacy

Question 5

The resumption of war with England

Answer 5

1309-1314. Recapture of Castles, just about every major fortification except for Stirling are taken back from the English with many being subsequently destroyed.

This was important because Their recapture allows Bruce to reconquer Scotland.

Question 6

Victory at Bannockburn

Answer 6

Gave the Scots confidence.

This was important because cemented Bruce’s reputation as a military commander and seemingly invincible warlord - success brought more support.

Question 7

Cambuskenneth Parliment

Answer 7

The victory at Bannockburn empowers Bruce to hold a parliament at Cambuskenneth in November 1314.

This was important because it allowed Bruce to give the ultimatum to swithering nobles via the Disinherited declaration, that they back him or lose lands

Question 8

Ireland

Answer 8

Bruce was not able to open up new fronts in Ireland.

This was important because it allowed Bruce to distract England with a battle on two fronts.

Question 9

Berwick

Answer 9

1318, Berwick was recovered from the English as the last occupied English outpost.

This was important because Recapture allows Bruce to gain control of the last English occupied outpost.

Question 10

Northampton

Answer 10

1328, after Bruce threatened to annex Northumbria, the Treaty of Edinburgh was created.

This was important because Peace Treaty allows Bruce to be recognised as the King of Scots