Bannockburn : Scotland's greatest battle for independence

`Everyone interested in the battle, for whatever reason, would do well to read this engaging book’ Sunday TimesIn Scotland, history and politics often become entangled.

For some, the past is a source of inspiration for the future.

For others, it becomes a salutary lesson in what mistakes to avoid.

The one thing Scottish history is not is dead, fit only for scholars and schoolchildren. In Scotland, on the eve of hard-fought referendum, history is more likely to be seen as a weapon to be wielded in a modern battle for the hearts and minds of the Scottish people. The Battle of Bannockburn (23-24 June, 1314) was a turning point in history, for the English as well as the Scots.

This medieval battle helped define the political landscape of Britain.

For many Scots this seminal moment from their past has become a patriotic talisman, even though the romantic myths which surround it have all but obscured what really happened.

Seven centuries later debates on national identity and Scottish independence will inevitably be influenced by the events of 1314. This landmark study, published to celebrate the 700th anniversary, is a clear and compelling account of Bannockburn, without political spin, tartan-clad embellishments or dry academic obfuscation.

In short, this is what every Scot should know before they cast their vote in 2014.