Lions Led By Donkeys Podcast Episode 308 - The Battle of Flodden Field
Apr 22, 2024
Scotland's ambitious invasion of England unfolds with a massive army and a royal marriage aimed at peace. But as French influence stirs conflict, James IV faces logistical nightmares and internal dissent. Tactics come to a head when English longbowmen and artillery turn the tide. Despite warnings, James commits to a doomed assault, leading to catastrophic losses. The aftermath reveals the futility of the battle and its dire consequences for Scotland. Meanwhile, humorously, the hosts ponder hypothetical battles with fictional characters in a light-hearted twist.
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Bribes Drove Scotland Into War
- France bribed James IV with money, soldiers, and a navy to force Scotland into war against England.
- The bribe directly undercut Scottish neutrality and pushed James toward a disastrous campaign.
Pike Warfare Needed Movement
- The Scots adopted extremely long pikes and French training to field a professional formation.
- Pike formations depended on momentum and needed space and cohesion to work effectively.
Big Army, Weak Logistics
- James assembled Scotland's largest army but failed to pay or sustain many troops beyond forty days.
- Size without logistics and pay left the army fragile and prone to desertion.