The years 1296 to 1316 were marked by significant events in Europe, particularly in Scotland and England. In 1296, the First War of Scottish Independence began when King Edward I of England invaded Scotland, leading to a struggle for Scottish sovereignty. The conflict saw key figures like William Wallace rise to prominence, although Wallace was eventually captured and executed in 1305. By 1314, the tide turned for Scotland with the decisive victory at the Battle of Bannockburn, where Robert the Bruce led Scottish forces against the English. This battle solidified Bruce's position as King of Scots and marked a turning point in the quest for independence, culminating in the eventual recognition of Scotland's sovereignty in 1328.