William’s nickname "the Lion" (Longsword) is believed to derive from his adoption of the lion rampant as a royal symbol—a striking red lion on a yellow background, which became a powerful emblem of Scottish royalty. The lion was intended to project strength, nobility, and courage, common royal attributes in medieval Europe.

However, this symbolic assertion of power was more aspirational than real. William’s reign was marked by a series of defeats and humiliations, especially in his relations with England, undermining the image of a lion-like warrior king.

Military Failures and the Battle of Alnwick (1174)

One of the defining episodes of William’s reign, and a vivid illustration of his shortcomings, was the invasion of northern England in 1173–1174. At this time, Henry II of England faced a rebellion by his own sons, and William saw an opportunity to assert Scottish claims over the northern English counties of Northumberland, Cumberland, and Westmorland, which his grandfather had once controlled.

William allied with the rebellious English barons, hoping to reclaim these lands. However, the campaign ended disastrously. In July 1174, William was captured at the Battle of Alnwick by forces loyal to Henry II.

His capture was a significant blow not only to his personal reputation but to Scottish sovereignty. He was imprisoned in the Tower of London, and the terms of his release were humiliating. The Treaty of Falaise, signed later that year, forced William to acknowledge Henry II as his feudal overlord and to hand over key Scottish castles to English control.

This treaty effectively reduced Scotland to a vassal state of England and represented a severe setback for Scottish independence. For many historians, this moment symbolizes William’s failure as a king capable of defending his realm and asserting his authority. shutdown123