Fact of the day

Scotland's greatest foe of the Middle Ages - Edward I, the 'Hammer of the Scots' - is born today in 1239. A powerful, intelligent and determined monarch, Edward's attempts to make Scotland bend to his will prove successful until Scottish patriots under the leadership of William Wallace spark off the Wars of Scottish Independence. Wallace is eventually captured and put to death, Edward's life ends in 1307 and dreams of his dynasty ruling all Britain are destroyed when his son Edward II is defeated by Robert the Bruce at Bannockburn. For more Scottish history visit heritage.scotsman.com