Battle of the Standard

Timeline

1. 1138Northern English border · EnglandDavid I, in the name of supporting Matilda's claim to the throne, led a coalition of Scottish and Anglo-Scottish nobles across the border, raiding Northumberland and Yorkshire. Archbishop Thurstan of York called on northern nobles and clergy to defend themselves; lords including William of Aumale and Walter Espec gathered forces and raised a 'Standard' (carrocium) bearing relics to boost morale.
2. 1138Cowton Moor · YorkshireThe two armies clashed at Cowton Moor. The English held high ground with the Standard at their center; the Scottish forces were heavily hit by arrows and heavy infantry in their charge and their line collapsed. Scottish losses were severe, and David I was forced to retreat, abandoning plans for further southern invasion that year.
3. 1138–1139Northern England · EnglandThe Battle of the Standard thwarted Scotland's attempt to expand its territory by exploiting the succession dispute and consolidated Stephen's defenses in northern England. Though defeated, David I still held his realm; the two sides concluded the Treaty of Durham the following year, exchanging cession of some northern border lands for peace, and the northern front temporarily quieted.