One of the major battles in Scotland’s struggle for independence was fought 720 years ago this weekend, on 22 July 1298. Here is everything you need to know about William Wallace and his role in the Battle of Falkirk.
Who was William Wallace?
William Wallace, one of Scotland’s greatest national heroes, led Scottish resistance forces after King Edward I imprisoned the scottish king John de Balliol and declared himself the ruler of Scotland.
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Wallace lead around 30 men to burn the royal town of Lanark and kill its English sheriff, and then raised an army to attack the English garrisons. In the Battle of Stirling Bridge in 1297, he captured Stirling Castle and nearly freed Scotland of occupying forces.
What was his role in the Battle of Falkirk?
In an attempt to avenge their loss at Stirling Bridge, English forces lead by Edward I invaded Scotland in 1298. Wallace led the defence, at the head an army of about 2,500 mounted knights and 12,500 infantry. Vulnerable to England’s longbowmen, his troopes were soon scattered by the charging English cavalry. The Scots then fled into the neighbouring woods. Wallace escaped, although he lost many supporters. After English rule was re-established, Wallace waged a lengthy guerrilla campaign .
How did he die?
Wallace was declared a traitor to the English king, even though he had never sworn allegiance. He was eventually hunted down - and then hanged, drawn, quartered and beheaded.
He was succeeded by Robert de Bruce, who in 1306 raised the rebellion that won Scotland’s independence.
