Execution of William Wallace
Smithfield, London
What happened
In September 1297 William Wallace and Andrew Moray led a Scottish army that defeated a larger English army at Stirling Bridge. In July 1298 King Edward I beat Wallace at the Battle of Falkirk, and Wallace gave up his role as Guardian of Scotland. He was captured near Glasgow on 5 August 1305, tried in London, and executed on 23 August 1305.
Why it matters
Wallace became a lasting symbol of Scotland's struggle for freedom and one of its great national heroes. He did not live to see it, but Scotland went on to win its independence under Robert the Bruce.
What came next
Robert the Bruce declared himself King of Scotland in March 1306. After a great victory over the English at Bannockburn in June 1314, he went on to remove English forces from Scotland.
Did you know?
The Wallace Monument near Stirling, built in the 1860s, is a tower about 67 metres (220 feet) tall.
Timeline
- September 1297Wallace and Andrew Moray defeat an English army at Stirling Bridge.
- March 1298Wallace is knighted and made Guardian of Scotland.
- July 1298Edward I defeats Wallace at the Battle of Falkirk.
- 5 August 1305Wallace is captured near Glasgow.
- 23 August 1305Wallace is executed in London.