[December 1, 2019] Unlike many heroes that I’ve highlighted here at my leadership blog, Sir William Wallace continues to be a highly controversial hero.1 The popular film, Braveheart (1995) starring actor Mel Gibson, helped alert us to the exploits of Wallace. Sir William Wallace was a Scottish knight who became one of the main leaders during the First War of Scottish Independence.
For those loyal to Scotland, to the many students of Scottish history, and modern citizens worldwide, William Wallace is remembered as a patriot and national hero. Born in the 1270s in Eldersile, Scotland, Wallace served as a military leader in the Wars of Scottish Independence before being captured, tortured, and executed.
“I’m William Wallace, and the rest of you will be spared. Go back to England and tell them… Scotland is free!” – William Wallace, after the Battle of Stirling Bridge
In 1296, King Edward I of England took advantage of a succession crisis in Scotland. He imposed himself as ruler with an English administration and within months, Scottish unrest was widespread. Acting as the vanguard of the revolt against England, Wallace assassinated the infamous William de Heselrig, the English High Sheriff of Lanark in May 1297.
In September 1297, an army led by Wallace and Andrew Moray won the Battle of Stirling Bridge. Although vastly outnumbered, the Scottish army routed Edward I’s English army. Wallace showed great leadership and tactical acumen during the battle. This led many Scots to rally around Wallace. In 1298, Edward I again invaded Scotland but this time defeated the Scottish armies.
Wallace’s efforts to spearhead his country’s long charge against English rule and his martyrdom paved the way for Scotland’s eventual success. This is, in part, why William Wallace was then and is now such a controversial hero. One thing we can say without controversy is that Wallace was an effective leader for his people.
- The question always seems to arise, “What is a Hero?” I answered that question a few years ago in an article with that title. But let us not forget that Sir William Wallace acted in the best interests of his Scottish brethren and for that reason he can be considered a real hero. Here is a link to the article: https://www.theleadermaker.com/hero/