January 1, This Day in History – June 24th: The Start of The Battle of Bannockburn

On this day, June 24, 1314, the Battle of Bannockburn, a pivotal confrontation in the First War of Scottish Independence, commenced near Stirling in Scotland. This two-day skirmish stands as a symbol of Scottish resistance and a turning point in their struggle for self-rule.

Under the stewardship of Robert the Bruce, the Scottish forces, though greatly outnumbered, masterfully utilized the surrounding terrain to their advantage. Employing a schiltron formation — dense ranks of spearmen arranged in a circular or square formation — Bruce and his troops repelled waves of English knights and footmen.

The Battle of Bannockburn unfolded against a backdrop of English occupation. Scotland, under the rule of King Edward II of England, was yearning for autonomy. The battle became a focal point of this struggle, a moment where military might and strategy converged with a strong desire for sovereignty.

By the end of June 24th, the Scots had successfully withstood the English onslaught, but the battle would continue into the next day. The final Scottish victory marked a significant setback for English dominance in Scotland and a monumental boost for Scottish morale.

Today, we remember June 24, 1314, as the day that the Battle of Bannockburn began, igniting a beacon of hope for Scotland’s independence. This event continues to inspire and resonate in the annals of Scottish history, symbolizing the indomitable spirit of a nation.