What was the Rough Wooing (1543-1551)?

Introduction The Rough Wooing (24 December 1543 to March 1551) was part of the Anglo-Scottish Wars of the 16th century between Scotland and England. Following its break with the Roman Catholic Church, England attacked Scotland, partly to break the Auld Alliance and prevent Scotland being used as a springboard for future invasion by France, partly… Read More

What was the Auld Alliance (1295-1560)?

Introduction The Auld Alliance (Scots for “Old Alliance”; French: Vieille Alliance; Scottish Gaelic: An Seann-chaidreachas) was an alliance made in 1295 between the kingdoms of Scotland and France for the purpose of controlling England’s numerous invasions. The Scots word auld, meaning old, has become a partly affectionate term for the long-lasting association between the two… Read More