Military history of Scotland for Robert I's success was his ability to call on naval forces from the Islands. As a result of the expulsion of the Flemings from England in 1303, he gained the support of a major naval power in the North Sea. The development of naval power allowed Robert to successfully defeat English attempts to capture him in the Highlands and Islands and to blockade major English controlled fortresses at Perth and Stirling, the last forcing Edward II to attempt the relief that resulted at English defeat at Bannockburn in 1314. Scottish naval forces allowed invasions of the Isle of Man
Niall Bruce of Carrick Niall Bruce of Carrick Niall Bruce of Carrick (died 17 October 1346), was a 14th century English noble. Niall is said to be an illegitimate child of King Robert I of Scotland. He was killed during the Battle of Neville's Cross in 1346. Niall of Carrick is alleged to be the illegitimate child of King Robert I of Scotland and an unknown mistress. The Battle of Neville's Cross took place to the west of Durham, England, on 17 October 1346. The ensuing battle ended with the rout of the Scots, the capture of King David II of Scotland and the