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The Declaration of Arbroath
WHEN Robert the Bruce defeated the English at Bannockburn in 1314 this did not end the 20-year War of Independence. England wanted Scotland, and Edward II was determined to take it.
Scotland may have been in a strong position at home, but it was weak abroad. It did not enjoy good relations with the papal power base, unlike England, which persuaded the Pope to excommunicate the whole of Scotland. (Bruce had already been excommunicated for his part in the murder of John Comyn in a church). Although Pope John XXII subsequently sent two cardinals to England in 1317 in an attempt to negotiate a truce, Edward II was stubborn and peace looked a dim prospect. for more click here
