The Scottish Forces during the First War of Scottish Independence (1296–1328)

Authors:

Pages: 43-75
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54664/RVDZ4329

Abstract:

During the First War of Scottish Independence (1296–1328), the Scottish forces faced considerable opposition from their enemies, often seen as superior. In general, the Scottish soldiers were somewhat badly equipped, their leaders were often bickering among themselves and they were using subpar siege equipment. Scottish forces, as all other armies of Medieval Europe, had three distinct “arms” – cavalry, infantry and archers (who weren’t necessary armed with a longbow). Their cavalry, the elite of the army, consisted of forces drawn from the noble populace of the country, as well as from some less well-off individuals, who could fight as light cavalry. The infantry of the Scottish army was usually drawn from the poorer social circles, although it should be said, that the aristocracy of the country often fought as infantry alongside their social inferiors. The archery arm of the country was drawn from the poor individuals as well. Scottish armies were also adept at supplying themselves in all sorts of ways: by using logistical chains, by raiding their opponents, etc. They also often seem to be well informed about the intentions of the English commanders. Although their forces lacked efficient siege equipment, that does not necessary mean that they were bad at conducting siege operations – they just had to rely on more “creative” methods – surprise attacks or treachery, but they could also conduct blockades. Against their enemies, they also often used raids, the “scorched earth policy” and the destruction of captured fortifications. In battle, their infantry was also famous for its schiltron formation, which was effective versus both enemy cavalry and infantry, but was vulnerable to hostile archer fire.

Keywords:

Scottish medieval army, Wars of Scottish Independence, warfare, military, Scotland, England, Robert Bruce, knighthood, infantry, archers, sieges, shiltron, strategy, tactics, logistics, intelligence.

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