Execution of William Wallace

William Wallace on Trial at Westminster Hall by Daniel Maclise

A Day in History: 23rd August 1305

Born around 1270, William Wallace was a Scottish knight who became one of the main leaders during the First War of Scottish Independence. The legendary figure cemented his reputation at the Battle of Stirling Bridge, defeating the English Army against all the odds. On August 5, 1305, Wallace was betrayed by an English nobleman named John Menteith leading to his capture near Glasgow.

Wallace was executed using one of the most brutal punishments available in the medieval era, being hung, drawn and quartered. In a failed attempt to warn others away from further rebellion, Wallace's head was dipped in tar and placed on a spike on London Bridge and his four limbs were displayed in Newcastle, Berwick, Stirling and Perth respectively. In 1329, Wallace's goal was completed as Scotland became an independent Kingdom, free from English control.