William Wallace
William Wallace | |
|---|---|
First known depiction of Sir William Wallace by David Erskine, 11th Earl of Buchan | |
| Guardian of Scotland (Second Interregnum) | |
| In office 1297–1298 | |
| Preceded by | John Balliol (as King of the Scots) |
| Succeeded by | |
| Personal details | |
| Born | c. 1270 Elderslie, Renfrewshire, Scotland (according to tradition) |
| Died | 23 August 1305 (aged c. 35) Smithfield, London, England |
| Cause of death | Hanged, drawn and quartered |
| Resting place | London, in an unmarked grave |
| Spouse | Marion Braidfute (disputed) |
| Children | None recorded |
| Parents |
|
| Occupation | Military leader |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance | Kingdom of Scotland |
| Years of service | 1297–1305 |
| Rank | Commander |
| Battles/wars | |
Sir William Wallace (Scottish Gaelic: Uilleam Uallas, pronounced [ˈɯʎam ˈuəl̪ˠəs̪]; Norman French: William le Waleys; c. 1270 – 23 August 1305) was a Scottish knight who became one of the main leaders during the First War of Scottish Independence.
Along with Andrew Moray, Wallace defeated an English army at the Battle of Stirling Bridge in September 1297. He was appointed Guardian of Scotland and served until his defeat at the Battle of Falkirk in July 1298. In August 1305, Wallace was captured in Robroyston, near Glasgow, and handed over to King Edward I of England, who had him hanged, drawn and quartered for high treason and crimes against English civilians.
Since his death, Wallace has obtained a legendary status beyond his homeland. He is the protagonist of Blind Harry's 15th-century epic poem The Wallace and the subject of literary works by Jane Porter and Sir Walter Scott, and of the Academy Award-winning film Braveheart.