#robert the bruce

7 July 1307

King Edward I died on this day in British history, 7 July 1307. In 1306, the English were taken by surprise when Robert the Bruce seized the Scottish throne and encouraged the Scots to fight for independence. The English were initially successful in quelling the rebellion, but Bruce emerged again in 1307 and raised more support. In spite of his failing health, Edward assembled English forces to march north and confront Bruce. On the march to Scotland, an already ill Edward developed dysentery, the infection that ultimately claimed his life on 7 July 1307. He was buried in Westminster Abbey and succeeded by his son, Edward II.