The Scottish War of Independence: A Critical Study

Evan Macleod Barron's The Scottish War of Independence is a historical account of Scotland’s struggle for independence from England during the late 13th and early 14th centuries. Originally published in 1914, it provides a detailed narrative of key events, the battles of Stirling Bridge and Bannockburn, and the roles of figures like William Wallace and Robert the Bruce.

Barron's work is notable for its thorough research and engaging storytelling. Unlike some older historical accounts, which focused heavily on English perspectives, Barron emphasizes Scotland’s strategic, political, and military efforts in resisting English rule.

Barron's introduction is quite revealing because he explicitly states that his account is told from the perspective of a Celtic Scotland. This is an interesting and somewhat unconventional framing, even for his time. Many older histories of the Wars of Independence leaned toward either an Anglocentric narrative or one focused on feudal Scotland's nobility. By choosing a "Celtic Scotland" perspective, Barron aligns himself with a more nationalist and arguably romanticized view of the conflict—one that emphasizes the struggle of the broader Scottish people rather than just the political ambitions of its ruling class.

The Celtic or  Gaelic-speaking heartlands of Scotland were primarily in the west (e.g., the Highlands, Galloway, and the Hebrides). However, the economic and political centers of power—Edinburgh, Stirling, Berwick, and Perth—were all firmly in the hands of a feudal elite, who were more influenced by Anglo-Norman traditions than by older Gaelic customs. The Lowlands had become largely English-speaking, with Scots beginning to replace Gaelic as the dominant tongue in government and urban centers.

This is a fine copy of a rare and important historical text. With good clean, navy and gilt titled cover boards and embossed vignette. The work remains tightly bound with clean and bright inside pages with natural age related toning. There is gilt edging on top pages.

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