The Declaration of Arbroath is an eloquent and carefully crafted document. It begins with a formal declaration that Scotland has long been a free and independent nation, asserting that the Scots have never been subject to foreign rule except for a brief period under the Romans. The document makes a clear distinction between the Scots and the English, emphasizing that the Scots had their own kings, laws, and traditions long before the English had any claim to the land.
The Declaration then turns to the question of Robert the Bruce’s legitimacy as king. The writers of the document assert that Bruce’s coronation was legitimate and that he was chosen by the Scottish people to defend their country against English aggression. They make it clear that the Scots had the right to choose their own king, and that their loyalty to Bruce was based on his leadership and his commitment to Scotland’s independence. The document also highlights the oath of loyalty that Bruce had sworn to the people of Scotland, and how he had fulfilled his duty to defend the nation from English oppression.
Perhaps the most famous passage of the Declaration of Arbroath is its bold assertion of Scotland’s right to self-determination. It declares that if a king or ruler does not protect the people’s interests, the people have the right to depose him and choose a new ruler. This passage reflects the growing sentiment of popular sovereignty in medieval Europe, and it underscores the importance of a ruler’s duty to serve the people rather than to impose foreign rule upon them.
The Declaration also addresses the English monarchy, accusing King Edward II of England of violating the principles of chivalry and justice in his treatment of the Scots. It rejects Edward II’s claim to sovereignty over Scotland and affirms Scotland’s right to remain free from English rule. The writers of the Declaration also appeal to the Pope, urging him to recognize Scotland’s independence and to provide support for Bruce’s reign shutdown123