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Explore the relentless fight and tragic fate of William Wallace, the Scottish hero who resisted English forces, was captured and subjected to a show trial, and ultimately faced a gruesome execution. Discover the events that led to his death and how his legacy inspired Scotland's ongoing struggle for independence.
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Wallace’s Death and Execution No words of peace are to be held out to William Wallace in any circumstances whatever unless he places himself utterly and absolutely in our will Edward I
There were many in Scotland who would shelter and help Wallace But others who would give him up for reward or favour WANTED WILLIAM WALLACE • Wallace never gave up in his fight against the English he continued to • Resist English forces • Evade capture • Harass occupying English forces
Wallace’s capture • Spring 1305 • Sir John Mentieth a Scottish knight joined Wallace’s followers as a spy • He communicated his movements to Edward • Wallace was reported to be staying in a house near Glasgow when Mentieth struck in the middle of the night.
Journey to London • Wallace was dragged away and taken to Carlisle where he was imprisoned • From Carlisle he was taken south • His hands tied behind his back and legs tied together under the belly of his horse • Journey lasted 17 days • Wallace and his captors reached London 22 August 1305 • Edward ordered him to be taken to trial
The Trial • Taken through streets of London past jeering crowds • ‘Show’ trial was held in Westminster Hall • Laurel wreath placed on his head • Peter Mallory (Chief Justiciar of England) in charge of proceedings • No witnesses were called • No pleas were given • Wallace had no opportunity to defend himself
The list of charges • Treason against the King • Murder, including that of Sir William Haselrig • Arson • Destruction of property • Sacrilege Wallace denied none of the accusations except Treason
Wallace’s Death • Tied and dragged through streets of London to Smithfield Elms • Noose placed around his neck and hoisted into the air • Left swinging and choking for 5 - 10 minutes before being taken down • Abdomen cut open, his bowels taken out and burned in front of him
Wallace’s Death • Head was cut off with an axe • Body cut into four quarters • Head placed on a spike over London Bridge • Four parts of his body sent to Berwick, Perth, Stirling and Newcastle
Edward’s triumph over Scotland was now complete….. Until 1314