Asserting Sovereignty: The declaration firmly asserted Scotland's sovereign status and its peoples' right to self-determination. It refuted claims of English authority and stated that the Scottish people were united in their pursuit of independence as a free nation.
Justifying the Right to Resistance: The declaration invoked legal and moral justifications for the Scottish's right to resist external control. It outlined the responsibilities of a just ruler and argued that when a king violated these principles, the people were not only entitled but also obligated to defend their rights and the kingdom.
Uniting the Scottish Nobility: The document was signed by a substantial number of Scottish nobles, demonstrating widespread support for the independence cause. This solidarity among the aristocracy helped unify the nation against English dominance.
Appealing for International Recognition: The declaration was sent to Pope John XXII in an attempt to gain international recognition of Scotland's independence. Although the pope did not officially endorse their request, the document's existence drew attention to Scotland's struggle and fostered diplomatic relations with other European nations.
Shaping Future Arguments for Independence: The declaration served as a powerful historical precedent for future generations arguing for Scottish independence. Its clear articulation of the rights of the people and the importance of liberty left a lasting impact on Scottish political thought and inspired future independence movements.
In summary, the Declaration of Arbroath made significant contributions to the cause of Scottish independence by providing legal, moral, and political justifications for Scotland's right to be a free and sovereign nation. It bolstered the nation's resolve for self-determination and left a lasting legacy as an influential document in Scottish history.