Wars of Independence
Alexander III
The unexpected death of Alexander III left Scotland in crisis and led to the Wars of Independence.
Margaret, Maid of Norway
Margaret, Maid of Norway, became Queen of Scotland when she was only three-years-old.
John Balliol
John Balliol is remembered as the unlucky king who lost his throne to King Edward I of England.
William Wallace
William Wallace's important role during the Wars of Independence made him one of the most famous Scots in history.
Robert the Bruce
Robert the Bruce is remembered as a great warrior and the king who won Scotland its freedom during the Wars of Independence.
Edward I
Edward I is best remembered as the English king who triggered the Wars of Independence with his invasion of Scotland.
Key battles of the Wars of Independence
Find out about five important battles during the Scottish Wars of Independence.
The Battle of Dunbar, 1296
The King of England invades and beats a Scottish army in battle at Dunbar.
The Battle of Stirling Bridge, 1297
At the Battle of Stirling Bridge William Wallace and Andrew Murray beat a huge English army.
The Battle of Falkirk, 1298
William Wallace suffers a terrible defeat at the Battle of Falkirk.
The Battle of Loudoun Hill, 1307
Robert the Bruce's wins an important victory against a larger English force at Loudoun Hill.
The Battle of Bannockburn, 1314
At Bannockburn King Robert the Bruce beats Edward II's English army in the final battle of the Wars of Independence.
Video playlist
Wallace's death. Video
Dr Fiona Watson discusses the evidence behind Wallace's capture, trial and execution.
Where was the Battle of Bannockburn? Video
Exploring various sites where historians believed the Battle of Bannockburn took place.
The death of John Comyn. Video
What happened at the church when Robert the Bruce and John Comyn met?
Wallace's birthplace. Video
Dr Fiona Watson discusses the facts surrounding Wallace's birthplace and his father.
The Wallace Sword. Video
Weapons expert Davis Caldwell discusses Wallace's sword.
The Battle of Stirling Bridge. Video
Professor Ted Cowan examines the historical evidence for the Battle of Stirling Bridge.