Robert the Bruce (Robert I of Scotland) is one of Scotland's greatest kings and fiercest warriors. He led the Scots in their long running battle against the English in the Wars of Independence. Bruce, as King of Scotland, achieved many things against the English and eventually succeeded in signing a treaty with the English which finally recognized Scotland's independence. This was further demonstrated with treaties also signed with the Pope.

Before Bruce succeeded in his political independence from England, he first had to achieve this militarily. England, under King Edward I, had captured most of England following the brutal execution of William Wallace. Many of the major castles and outposts had been taken making it very difficult for the Scots to regroup. Bruce rounded up a small band of loyal followers and began to partake in guerilla warfare against the English. They were heavily outnumbered, and the english weaponry was far superior. Yet for 8 years Bruce and his ever growing army fought against the English and slowly pushed them further and further back. At the Battle of Bannockburn, Bruce gained huge recognition for the tactical victory - he refused to meet the English on even ground in order to gain an advantage (the Scottish were outnumbered 10 to 1). This was the point in which militarily Scotland gained their independence from England as Bannockburn was the last English stronghold in Scotland.

As well as being a strong and courageous military leader that united Scotland against the English oppressors, Bruce is also attributed with the phrase, "If at first you don't succeed, try, try, and try again." Bruce, after one of his early battles against the English which resulted in defeat, found himself alone in a cave. He watched a spider who was spinning a web in the entrance of the cave fall down several times in the process. He decided he must be like the spider and not give up against the English. There would undoubtedly be set backs but he must keep picking himself up and continue in his quest for Scottish independence. This is a great philosophy that has been used to inspire and motivate in times in trouble.

Submitted by: James Renton