June 24th , 1314
Bannockburn is a village immediately south of the city of Stirling in Scotland. It is named after the Bannock Burn, a stream running through the village before flowing into the River Forth.
Marshy land surrounding the Bannock Burn was the site of the Battle of Bannockburn fought in 1314 - one of the pivotal battles of the 13th-14th century Wars of Independence between Scotland and England. A large monument and visitor centre is located near the site of the battle.
Bruces army advanced towards the English like a thick set hedge and pushed them back. Firstly the English lost their formations, then they lost their nerve just as the Scots were tiring. The sudden intervention of Bruces camp followers broke the English morale and they fled.
Stirling Castle, which Edward II had been trying to relieve, surrendered the next day. The victory ensured Scotlands survival as an independent country with Bruce as its King.
The Scottish victory was complete and, although full English recognition of Scottish independence was not achieved until more than ten years later, Robert Bruces position as king was greatly strengthened by the events at Bannockburn.
