u/CaptainCrash86

HISTORY: The First War of Scottish Independence (1296–1328) was the conflict between Scotland and England over the independence of the Scottish kingdom. The crisis arose after the death of King Alexander III and his heir, Margaret of Norway, who left the throne without a direct successor. The English King Edward I intervened in the dynastic dispute, called upon to choose a ruler, and imposed his authority over Scotland by promoting the accession of John Balliol to the throne.

When Scottish nobles attempted to escape English control and allied themselves with France, Edward I invaded Scotland in 1296, deposed Balliol, and occupied the country. During this period, important Scottish treasures were stolen, such as the crown and the famous Stone of Scone, on which Scottish monarchs were crowned. The resistance was led by William Wallace, who achieved a major victory at Stirling Bridge in 1297, but was defeated the following year at Falkirk and finally captured and executed in 1305.

The struggle continued under the leadership of Robert Bruce, crowned King of Scotland in 1306. After difficult years, Bruce managed to reconquer much of the country and in 1314 achieved a decisive victory against the English at the Battle of Bannockburn, which consolidated Scottish independence.

In the following years, Scotland strengthened its political and diplomatic position, including through the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, which asserted the right of Scots to live in freedom. Finally, in 1328, the Treaty of Edinburgh-Northampton officially recognized Scotland's independence and the reign of Robert the Bruce.

The war brought fame to figures such as William Wallace and Robert the Bruce, who became symbols of resistance and Scottish national identity.