Everyone interested in the battle, for whatever reason, would do well to read this engaging book' Sunday Times In Scotland, history and politics often become entangled. For some, the past is a source of inspiration for the future. For others, it becomes a salutary lesson in what mistakes to avoid. The one thing Scottish history is not is dead, fit only for scholars and schoolchildren. In Scotland, on the eve of hard-fought referendum, history is more likely to be seen as a weapon to be wielded in a modern battle for the hearts and minds of the Scottish people. The Battle of Bannockburn (23-24 June, 1314) was a turning point in history, for the English as well as the Scots. This medieval battle helped define the political landscape of Britain. For many Scots this seminal moment from their past has become a patriotic talisman, even though the romantic myths which surround it have all but obscured what really happened. Seven centuries later debates on national identity and Scottish independence will inevitably be influenced by the events of 1314. This landmark study, published to celebrate the 700th anniversary, is a clear and compelling account of Bannockburn, without political spin, tartan-clad embellishments or dry academic obfuscation. In short, this is what every Scot should know before they cast their vote in 2014.
Author Biography
ANGUS KONSTAM is a widely published and respected military and naval historian, with numerous books to his credit. A former Royal Naval officer, maritime archaeologist and museum curator, he holds degrees from three universities, including a Masters degree from St. Andrews. Before that he studied Scottish Medieval history in Aberdeen University. He is the author of several major books, including Historical Atlas of the Medieval World, Historical Atlas of the Crusades, books about pirates, Renaissance ships and the Scottish soldier. He has given numerous public lectures in Britain, as well as in Europe and North America, and his work has been translated into several languages. He is frequently interviewed by the press in his capacity as a maritime historian, and has appeared live on both television and radio. He also made frequent appearances in television documentaries screened by the BBC and ITV, as well as the History and Discovery Channels. He currently splits his time between Edinburgh and Orkney.
