Battle of Methven

The Battle of Methven, which took place on June 19, 1306, was a significant engagement during the First War of Scottish Independence. Near the town of Methven in Perthshire, Robert the Bruce's newly formed army faced a surprise attack by English forces under the command of Aymer de Valence, the Earl of Pembroke. Despite Bruce's attempts to negotiate a delay in the confrontation, the English launched a pre-dawn assault, catching the Scots off-guard. The ensuing battle resulted in a decisive victory for the English, with many of Bruce's men killed or captured. The defeat forced Bruce into hiding and represented a low point in his quest for the Scottish crown, but he would eventually rebound and continue his struggle for Scotland's independence.