Battle of Dunbar (1650)
Broxmouth, near Dunbar, Scotland, UK
What happened
The English launched a surprise attack before dawn. Fighting on the north-east side was even at first, until Cromwell used his last reserve to get around the Scots. The Scottish cavalry broke, and the infantry retreated, many being captured.
Why it matters
It destroyed Leslie's army and left the Scottish government without its main force. The government moved to Stirling.
What came next
The English captured Edinburgh and Leith, and a year later, on the same date, won at Worcester. About 3,000 Scottish prisoners were held at Durham Cathedral; many died on the march south or in captivity, and survivors were deported as indentured workers on English possessions overseas.
Did you know?
Parliament made the Dunbar Medal for the soldiers, said to be the first campaign medal for all ranks of an army.
Timeline
- 3 Sep 1650Battle of Dunbar.
- 20 Jul 1651Battle of Inverkeithing.
- 3 Sep 1651Battle of Worcester.