Friday, June 17, 2011

Longshanks

'With this secret and unjust purpose, Edward of England summoned the nobility and clergy of Scotland to meet him at the Castle of Norham, a large and strong fortress, which stands on the English side of the Tweed, on the line where that river divides England from Scotland. They met there on the 10th May 1291, and were presented to the King of England, who received them in great state, surrounded by the high officers of his court. He was a very handsome man, and so tall, that he was popularly known by the name of Longshanks, that is, long legs. The Justiciary of England then informed the nobility and clergy of Scotland, in King Edward's name, that before he could proceed to decide who should be the vassal King of Scotland, it was necessary that they should acknowledge the King of England's right as Lord Paramount, or Sovereign, of that kingdom.'

Sir Walter Scott introduces Edward I of England in his "Tales of a Grandfather".  The man who became known as the Hammer of the Scots was born on June 17, 1239.  His reign was marked by warfare, especially with Scotland.  Edward died in 1307, two years after having William Wallace executed.

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