The story of Braveheart is a mix of history and legend, centered on the life of William Wallace, a Scottish knight and national hero who became one of the main leaders during the First War of Scottish Independence against England in the late 13th century.
Here's the real story behind Braveheart, with some historical clarity sprinkled in:
The Real William Wallace
William Wallace was born around 1270 in Elderslie, in Renfrewshire, Scotland (though some sources claim Ayrshire). Little is known of his early life, but he was likely from the lower nobility or a landowning family. He was educated, probably fluent in Latin, and trained in the arts of warfare.
Scotland Under English Rule
After the death of Alexander III of Scotland in 1286, and then his granddaughter Margaret, Maid of Norway in 1290, Scotland fell into a succession crisis. King Edward I of England (also known as "Longshanks") took advantage of the chaos, asserting his overlordship over Scotland.
He eventually placed John Balliol on the Scottish throne, but Balliol was a weak king, and Edward continued to exert power. In 1296, Edward invaded Scotland, deposed Balliol, and claimed direct control—sparking resentment and rebellion.
Wallace Rises
Wallace entered the historical record in 1297. After an incident where he reportedly killed an English sheriff (the story goes that English soldiers killed his wife or lover), Wallace began to attract followers and launched a guerrilla campaign against the English.
His most famous victory was the Battle of Stirling Bridge in September 1297. With a much smaller force, Wallace and fellow commander Andrew Moray defeated a much larger English army using clever tactics at the narrow bridge crossing.
After the battle, Wallace was knighted and became Guardian of Scotland.
Downfall and Capture
Wallace's triumph was short-lived. In 1298, Edward I returned with a massive army and defeated Wallace at the Battle of Falkirk. Wallace escaped but resigned as Guardian.
For several years he remained in hiding or abroad (he may have traveled to France and the Papacy seeking support), but was eventually betrayed and captured near Glasgow in 1305.
Trial and Execution
Wallace was taken to London and put on trial for treason. He famously declared: "I cannot be a traitor, for I owe him [Edward] no allegiance." He was brutally executed—hanged, drawn, and quartered—on August 23, 1305. His limbs were displayed across Britain as a warning.
Legacy
Wallace became a symbol of Scottish resistance and freedom. Though he didn’t live to see Scottish independence, his struggle paved the way. Robert the Bruce would later pick up the fight and secure independence after the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314.
The Movie “Braveheart” (1995)
Directed by and starring Mel Gibson, Braveheart popularized Wallace's story worldwide. However, it took major liberties with the facts:
- Wallace was never called "Braveheart"—that nickname is more associated with Robert the Bruce.
- He never had a romantic affair with Princess Isabella (she was a child in France at the time).
- Kilts and face paint? Very anachronistic.
- The Battle of Stirling Bridge… had no bridge in the movie, oddly.
Despite the inaccuracies, the film sparked a revival of interest in Scottish history and national pride.
