Following Comyn’s death and Bruce’s coronation, Edward I declared him an outlaw and excommunicated him. Bruce’s early attempts to hold the crown were disastrous. He suffered several defeats and was forced into hiding. His wife and sisters were captured, and his brothers executed.

It was during this dark period that the legend of the spider arose—a tale that Robert, hiding in a cave, observed a spider trying repeatedly to spin its web. Its persistence inspired him not to give up. Though likely apocryphal, the story captured the spirit of Bruce’s resilience and became a cornerstone of his mythology.

 Rise from the Ashes and the Road to Bannockburn

In 1307, the death of Edward I removed Bruce’s greatest enemy. His son, Edward II, was far less formidable, and Bruce began a guerrilla campaign to reclaim Scottish lands. Over the next several years, Bruce systematically dismantled English garrisons and defeated rival Scottish lords.

By 1314, the Scottish cause had regained significant ground, and the decisive moment came at the Battle of Bannockburn. Facing a much larger English army, Bruce’s forces achieved a stunning and crushing victory. This battle not only solidified Bruce’s rule but also marked a turning point in Scotland’s struggle for independence.

At Bannockburn, Bruce personally killed Henry de Bohun, an English knight, in single combat with a blow to the head using his axe. The act was brutal and symbolic—a clear message that Scotland would not bow to England.

 King of Scots and Political Mastermind

Bruce spent the next years consolidating his power. In 1320, the Declaration of Arbroath was sent to the Pope, asserting Scotland’s independence and Bruce’s right to rule. It is one of the most eloquent declarations of nationhood in medieval history.

Finally, in 1328, the Treaty of Edinburgh-Northampton recognized Scotland’s independence and Bruce’s kingship. It was a crowning achievement, born from decades of struggle, warfare, and political manipulation. shutdown123