History of the Manuscript

The Declaration was written on behalf of the Community of the Realm of Scotland at Arbroath,by Bernard de Linton, Abbot of Arbroath, Chancellor of Scotland, 6th April 1320 to Pope John XXII, at Avignon, France, as International Arbitrator. It was a direct result of the solemn considerations of a Great Council of Earls, Barons and Freeholders, who had foregathered at Newbattle Abbey, near Edinburgh, in March of that year.

It bears the seals of eight Earls, thirty-eight Barons, and several Freeholders of the Realm of Scotland.

This was the first time in European history that Power and Rights were declared by the People.

It was made clear to King Robert I (the Bruce) in his presence, that he had a Nation’s true and loyal support for so long as he returned this Loyalty. Truly, it is one of the world’s great affirmations, which will forever inspire all Scots - wherever they may be.

"For as long as but one hundred of us remain alive, we will never on any conditions submit to the domination of the English. It is not for glory nor riches, nor honours that we fight, but for freedom alone, which no good man gives up except with his life."