SOURCE EXERCISE ON THE TREATY OF EDINBURGH/NORTHAMPTON
Source exercise on the Treaty of Edinburgh/Northampton,
1328
Source A: from Medieval Scotland by A.D.M. Barrell, 2000
The opportunity to end the long conflict with a formal recognition by the
English crown of Scottish independence came amid the chaos whi ch
accompanied the deposition of Edward II in 1327… Dissensions in England
gave the Scots a favourable opportunity to renew the war, hence Robert’s
fresh intervention in Ireland in order to try and force the English to come to
terms. In the Borders, an unsuccessful English campaign against a raiding
Scottish force in 1327 was followed by an assault on Norham by Robert and
rumours that the Scots intended to occupy Northumberland.
How fully does Source A explain the reasons for the ultimate success of
Robert I in securing Scottish independence?
Use the source and recalled knowledge.
First identify all the explanations referred to in the source. The reference
may only be slight but you should still explain and develop that point.
 The chaos that accompanied the deposition of Edward I. Give details of
the ‘chaos’ and show how this played to Robert’s advantage and enabled
him to secure Scottish independence.
 Robert’s initiative in Ireland. Why would the English regency fear
Scottish involvement in Ireland? How successful had earlier Scottish
interventions in Ireland actually been?
 Scottish invasion of the northern counties of England. Give details of
such raids since 1314. How damaging were they to the communities
concerned and to the English government?
Now bring in any remaining factors that are not referred to in the source.
 The resumption of the Franco–Scottish alliance in 1326. Give details and
show how this put pressure on the English government.
End your answer with an overall conclusion in which you say how fully the
source explains Robert I’s ultimate success in securing Scottish
independence. Possible answers include:
 not at all
 to a limited extent
 to a certain extent
WARS OF INDEPENDENCE (H, HISTORY)
© Learning and Teaching Scotland 2009
1
SOURCE EXERCISE ON THE TREATY OF EDINBURGH/NORTHAMPTON
 to a considerable extent
 fully.
2
WARS OF INDEPENDENCE (H, HISTORY)
© Learning and Teaching Scotland 2009