Early Life
William Wallace, one of Scotland’s most famous historical figures, was born around 1270, likely in Elderslie, Renfrewshire. While little is definitively known about his early life, he is believed to have come from a minor noble family. Educated and well-versed in warfare, Wallace emerged as a leader during one of Scotland’s most turbulent times—the Wars of Scottish Independence.
Background to the Wars of Independence
The late 13th century was a time of political chaos for Scotland. After the death of King Alexander III in 1286 and the subsequent death of his heir, Margaret, the Maid of Norway, Scotland found itself without a clear ruler. Edward I of England, known as the “Hammer of the Scots,” was invited to mediate the succession crisis but instead took the opportunity to impose English rule over Scotland.
In 1296, Edward invaded Scotland, defeating the Scots at the Battle of Dunbar and deposing King John Balliol. He installed English garrisons across the country, sparking widespread resentment and resistance.
Wallace’s Rise to Prominence
By 1297, William Wallace had emerged as a key figure in the Scottish resistance. His first major act of defiance was the killing of the English sheriff of Lanark, William Heselrig, an act that ignited a rebellion. Wallace, alongside other Scottish nobles and commoners, launched attacks on English strongholds, gaining support and growing into a formidable leader.
The Battle of Stirling Bridge (1297)
One of Wallace’s most famous victories came at the Battle of Stirling Bridge on September 11, 1297. The battle was a turning point in the resistance against English rule. Facing a much larger and better-equipped English army led by John de Warenne, Wallace and his co-commander Andrew de Moray used the terrain to their advantage. As the English attempted to cross a narrow bridge over the River Forth, the Scots launched a surprise attack, cutting down their enemies and forcing them into retreat. The victory demonstrated that Scotland could defeat the mighty English forces and bolstered Scottish morale.
Following this triumph, Wallace was appointed Guardian of Scotland, ruling on behalf of the exiled King John Balliol.
The Battle of Falkirk (1298)
However, Wallace’s success was short-lived. In 1298, Edward I personally led an army into Scotland to crush the rebellion. The two forces met at the Battle of Falkirk on July 22, 1298. Wallace deployed a defensive formation known as the schiltron, a circle of tightly packed spearmen. Initially, this strategy held firm, but English longbowmen decimated the Scottish ranks, leading to a decisive English victory.
Despite the defeat, Wallace’s resilience ensured that the spirit of Scottish resistance continued. Wallace later resigned as Guardian, and leadership of the resistance passed to Robert the Bruce and John Comyn.
Wallace’s European Diplomacy
After stepping down, Wallace is believed to have traveled to France in 1299 to seek support from King Philip IV against the English. Some accounts suggest he may have also visited Rome. However, neither France nor the Papacy provided the necessary military aid.
Capture and Execution
Wallace returned to Scotland to continue his fight, but he was eventually betrayed by a Scottish noble, John de Menteith, and captured in August 1305 near Glasgow. He was taken to London and put on trial for treason against King Edward I, despite never swearing loyalty to England.
On August 23, 1305, Wallace was subjected to a brutal execution. He was hanged, drawn, and quartered—dragged through the streets, hanged until near death, disemboweled, and finally beheaded. His body was mutilated, with parts sent to different locations to serve as a warning against rebellion.
Legacy and Impact
Although Wallace was executed, his legacy endured. His resistance inspired later figures, most notably Robert the Bruce, who led Scotland to victory at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314.
Wallace became a symbol of Scottish nationalism, and his reputation grew over the centuries. In the 19th century, Romantic writers and poets, such as Sir Walter Scott, revived interest in Wallace’s story, portraying him as the ultimate freedom fighter.
Depiction in Popular Culture
Wallace’s legend was immortalized in the 1995 film Braveheart, directed by and starring Mel Gibson. While historically inaccurate in many respects, the film introduced Wallace’s story to a global audience and reinforced his status as a national hero.
Conclusion
William Wallace’s fight for Scottish independence remains one of the most significant chapters in Scotland’s history. Though his rebellion did not immediately free Scotland from English rule, his courage and leadership inspired generations. His legacy lives on in Scotland’s national identity, with monuments such as the Wallace Monument in Stirling standing as a testament to his enduring impact.
Wallace’s story is not just one of war and resistance, but of an unwavering belief in freedom—an ideal that continues to resonate centuries after his death.
