BattlefieldsBattle of Dunbar (1296)
Medieval

Battle of Dunbar (1296)

1296
Scotland
Also known as: Battle of Dunbar Castle 1296
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Scotland (John Balliol)
Forces
Scottish army: c. 6,000-10,000.
VS
Victor
England (Earl of Surrey)
Forces
Earl of Surrey: c. 5,000-7,000
Outcome
Scottish army routed; John Balliol surrendered; Scotland formally submitted
The Battle

History & Significance

The battle that ended Scotland's first resistance to Edward I. The Scottish army made the tactical error of abandoning strong ground to attack the English — the resulting rout was complete. King John Balliol surrendered his kingdom's regalia — the "Ragman Roll" — to Edward, who mockingly called him "King Toom Tabard" (Empty Surcoat). Scotland was annexed, the Stone of Destiny removed to Westminster. Wallace's revolt the following year reversed everything.

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