Battle of Stirling Bridge
Stirling Bridge, Stirling, Scotland
What happened
William Wallace and Andrew Moray led the Scottish army against the English army of John de Warenne, Earl of Surrey, and Hugh de Cressingham. King John Balliol of Scotland had surrendered to King Edward I of England in 1296, and Edward's forces held Scotland. To reach the Scots, the English had to cross a narrow wooden bridge over the River Forth near Stirling. The Scots let part of the army cross, took control of the near end of the bridge, and cut off the English reinforcements, and the English were defeated.
Why it matters
Result: Scottish victory. Leaders: William Wallace / Andrew de Moray against Earl of Surrey / Hugh de Cressingham. Why it matters: It was a major Scottish victory early in the First War of Scottish Independence. It made William Wallace a national leader.
What came next
Andrew Moray was badly wounded and was dead by November. Wallace was appointed Guardian of Scotland. Edward I planned another invasion, which led to the Battle of Falkirk in 1298.
Did you know?
Although the battle is famous for its bridge, the film Braveheart leaves the bridge out entirely.
Timeline
- May 1297 CEAndrew Moray leads a rising against the English in the north of Scotland.
- 11 September 1297 CEWallace and Moray defeat the English at Stirling Bridge.
- c. November 1297 CEAndrew Moray dies of his wounds.
- 22 July 1298 CEEdward I defeats Wallace at Falkirk.