Strongholds of the Border Reivers - Fortifications of the Anglo-Scottish Border 1296-1603

Strongholds of the Border Reivers - Fortifications of the Anglo-Scottish Border 1296-1603 (Osprey FOR-70)

Published by Osprey Publishing 2008 - author: Keith Durham - soft cover - 64 pages - Pre-owned, Condition VERY GOOD

In the year 1296, Edward I of England launched a series of vicious raids across the Anglo-Scottish Border in his attempt to annexe Scotland. The Scots retaliated and the two countries were plunged into 300 years of war in which the Borderland became the frontline and raiding, or reiving, encouraged by both sides, became a way of life. Keith Durham examines the Border fortresses, ranging from small, well-defended castles to imposing tower houses, or peles, and a variety of fortified farmhouses known as bastles. He also investigates the many churches that were strengthened against attack and in times of trouble served as sanctuaries for their congregations. Packed with full-colour photographs and detailed cut-away artwork, this is an ideal historical commentary for any tourist visiting the sites that are dotted across the whole of the Border region.