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The Medieval Period (1100AD - 1499AD)

Wars of Independence

The south-west of Scotland has many strong links to the struggle for Scottish Independence; not least, it is the birthplace of Robert the Bruce and probably of William Wallace. Other heroes too have their roots here - Sir Robert Boyd, who allegedly was William Wallace's second in command before joining Bruce and becoming one of his most trusted commanders at Bannockburn; and Sir James Douglas, Bruce's closest supporter and architect of many border raids deep into England. These raids struck so much terror into the hearts of those who witnessed them that Sir James would forever be remembered south of the border as the 'Black Douglas'.

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