Scottish Renaissance Armies 1513-1550

Description

This book details the armies of what is known as 'the Rough Wooing' - the most active period of Scottish warfare, which saw conflicts against both the English Tudor monarchs, and notable internal struggles between the Stuart kings and their unruly lords in the Highlands. Militarily, this covers an important transition period, from medieval to Renaissance armies, the spread of firearms, the involvement of foreign mercenaries, and revolutionary tactics that included early instances of the classic Highland Clan charge. The author analyses these changes and the colourful costumes, armour and heraldry worn, as well as the major battles of the period. Ultimately, this was a time of great success for the Scots. By the fall of Lauder in 1550, the English had lost every fortress north of the border. Scotland's independence was secure and 50 years later King James VI of Scotland became the first Stuart king of England.

JON COOPER was born in 1965 in Halifax, Nova Scotia and educated in Cannock, Staffordshire. He served in the Merchant Navy and in the Royal Air Force , before becoming a project manager in the financial services industry. His previous work includes the first in-depth study of his hometown battle at Linlithgow Bridge. He is currently studying for a MLitt in Battlefield Archaeology at Glasgow University

"The early sixteenth century was a time of important military changes, particularly in the use of firearms and infantry tactics. This 64-page paperback reveals the organization, arms, equipment and tactics of Scottish armies with stunning original full-color illustrations, photos, drawings and period artwork. A must for anyone interested in 'The Rough Wooing, ' the most active period of Scottish warfare and significant battlefield victories." --Renaissance News (February 2009) "Jonathan Cooper's Scottish Renaissance ARmies, 1513-1550 describes and illustrates the Scottish armies of the 16th century, and is a pick for any specialty collection focusing on this region and era. It details the organization, dress and tactics of these armies and comes with period images and color plates throughout." --The Bookwatch (February 2009)