BattlefieldsScots Occupation of Carlisle 1136
Medieval

Scots Occupation of Carlisle 1136

1136
Cumberland, England
Also known as: David I takes Carlisle · Scottish garrison at Carlisle
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Cumberland, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
England / Carlisle garrison
Forces
Carlisle garrison: c. 100–250.
VS
Victor
Scotland (David I)
Forces
Scottish forces: c. 2,000–3,500
Outcome
Carlisle occupied by David I; held as Scottish territory until 1157
The Battle

History & Significance

David I took advantage of the chaos of The Anarchy — the civil war between King Stephen and Empress Matilda — to seize Carlisle and much of northern England. He held it as a Scottish possession for over twenty years. Carlisle became effectively a Scottish city, with David holding court there and issuing charters. His grandson Malcolm IV had to surrender it to Henry II in 1157. The occupation showed how far Scottish power extended at its Anarchy-era peak.

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