Border Raids and Reivers

"Border Raids and Reivers" by Robert Borland is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the intriguing phenomenon of Border reiving that took place along the Scottish Borders, where clans engaged in a cycle of plunder and retaliation over several centuries. It explores the lives and motivations of the reivers, contextualizing their actions within the broader historical conflict between Scotland and England. The opening of the book introduces the concept of Border reiving, detailing its origins, motivations, and the harsh living conditions that led many to engage in this lawless life. Borland discusses the socio-political climate that fostered such behavior, highlighting the influence of powerful clans and the role of the English and Scottish governments in perpetuating a cycle of violence and revenge. The narrative sets the stage for a deeper exploration of specific events, individuals, and battles in subsequent chapters, painting a vivid picture of a tumultuous period marked by conflict and survival.