Exam Questions: Robert Bruce

Source A explains why the Scots had recognised King Edward’s authority by 1305. In May 1303 King Edward invaded Scotland once more – but for the last time. He made an armed progress through the realm and stayed for the winter in Dunfermline. Edward then punished the Scottish nobles by making them pay fines. He exiled a few of their most troublesome leaders but there was only one execution. By 1305 King Edward felt he had secured his authority in Scotland. 1. Why did the Scots recognise King Edward’s authority by 1305? (Use Source A and recall.) 5 marks

Source B is about Robert Bruce’s decision to make himself King of Scots. After King Edward left Scotland, his men were in control of every part of the kingdom. They treated the Scots cruelly with insults, wounds and killings. Robert Bruce saw this and was moved with great sorrow. He took strong measures to free his fellow countrymen. 2. Why did Robert Bruce decide to make himself King of Scots? (Use Source B and recall.) 5 marks

Source C is about what happened when Bruce made himself King of Scots in 1306. The problem which faced many Scots in 1306 should not be under-estimated. Ever since 1297 Scottish patriots had fought for King Balliol. Many were reluctant to throw Balliol aside and to accept Robert Bruce in his place. To them, Bruce had no right to the throne and he had not always supported Scottish independence. The civil war between Bruce and Balliol divided the Scots more than anything else had in the past. 3. Why did Robert Bruce decide to make himself King of Scots? (Use Source B and recall.) 5 marks

4. Describe what happened at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. 5 marks

Source D is about the Battle of Bannockburn. Bruce’s careful preparations for battle were ruined when Edward II moved his army to attack from the east and not from the south. However, this gave the much larger English army no room to move because they were surronded by marshes and streams. Bruce decided to tke advantage of this mistake and to attack them. The English were so jammed together and so tangled up that their leaders struggled to organise any defence and they lost all confidence in Edward II for leading them into this trap. 5. Why did the Scots win the Battle of Bannockburn? (Use Source D and recall.) 5 marks