Rest in Peace Sir William Wallace of Ellerslie

Wallace: For Freedom Alone - E. G. Spitzer

On this day in 1305 Sir William Wallace lost his final battle and was murdered in London, suffering the most horrendous of ends.

Here's what he said at his 'trial', probably the only proven quote that exists - the final words of a truly great man, hero and legend:

"I cannot be a traitor, for I owe him no allegiance. He is not my Sovereign; he never received my homage; and whilst life is in this persecuted body, he never shall receive it. To the other points whereof I am accused, I freely confess them all. As Governor of my country I have been an enemy to its enemies; I have slain the English; I have mortally opposed the English King; I have stormed and taken the towns and castles which he unjustly claimed as his own. If I or my soldiers have plundered or done injury to the houses or ministers of religion, I repent me of my sin; but it is not of Edward of England I shall ask pardon."