Stirling Castle was one of the most important fortifications in Scotland, controlling a strategic crossing point over the River Forth. In 1304, it was under the command of the Scots, defending against the English forces led by King Edward I. The siege of Stirling began in earnest, with Edward's forces employing various tactics to break the spirit of the defenders. A pivotal element of his strategy was the extensive use of siege engines, particularly the colossal trebuchet known as the War Wolf. Crafted to be one of the largest and most powerful trebuchets of its time, the War Wolf was designed to hurl massive stones, culminating in significant damage to the castle's structure.

The defenders, although well aware of the tactical importance of Stirling, were ultimately no match for the intense bombardment delivered by Edward’s forces. After weeks of siege and heavy loss of morale among the Scottish garrison, the castle's defenses were severely compromised. The final assault led to the surrender of Stirling Castle, which not only represented a major military victory for Edward I but also signified the consolidation of English power in Scotland during the Wars of Scottish Independence. The fall of the castle would have lasting implications for Scottish resistance and the dynamics of Edward's reign.

Through the successful capture of Stirling Castle, Edward I reaffirmed his claim over Scotland and showcased the evolving nature of siege warfare, with innovations like the War Wolf redefining military strategies. The English victory at Stirling Castle fed into the broader narrative of the conflict between England and Scotland, as it further entrenched the notion of resistance among the Scots and contributed to their ongoing struggle for sovereignty.