A History of Robert the Bruce of Scotland, Part One

Robert the Bruce disagreed with the outcome ofguardianship and was replaced by Sir Gilbert, First
the Great Cause in 1292, which gave the CrownLord de Umfraville.
of Scotland to John Balliol, he viewed it as unjustIn July 1301, King Edward launched his sixth
in that it prevented his branch of family theircampaign into Scotland, the Bruce along with
rightful place. He sided with Edward I against John,other nobles submitted to him. In 1303, Edward
he received a respite for all his debts owed to theinvaded again, he conquered the entire country, all
English Exchequer.the leading Scots with the exception of William
In 1296, Robert the Bruce and his father sworeWallace surrendered to him. Edward began
fealty to Edward I, but the following year Robertimplementing strategies designed to absorb
supported the Scottish revolt against Edward.Scotland into England. Wallace, meanwhile was
After William Wallace resigned as Guardian ofcaptured and executed. Bruce believed that the
Scotland after the Battle of Falkirk it was RobertScottish throne belonged to him more than any
the Bruce and John Comyn who replaced him.other but his dual policy of supporting both English
However these two clashed terribly and a thirdAnd Scottish armies had weakened his claim
guardian, William Lamberton was added in ansomewhat in favour of John Comyn. He led
attempt to restore balance to the alliance. InComyn into a trap, attacked and killed him, for
1300, Robert the Bruce resigned from thethis deed Robert was excommunicated.