Savior of Scotland: Sir William Wallace
Saviour of Scotland, Sir William Wallace…
Near the end of the 13th century, Scotland gave birth to a legendary hero who would later free his nation from their English brethren. A man who pledged his life, his fortune, and his sacred honor for the liberty of his men. This champion- they called Sir William Wallace. After England took control of the nation in the 1300s, Wallace soon became Scotland’s “ultimate hope” and his victory is still talked about by the Scottish people today. Whether it was his wise tactics against the English or his daring patriotism, William successfully led the Scots to triumph. Without William Wallace’s military power and inspirational leadership, Scotland would have never prevailed in gaining its independence and therefore he is and continues to be honored as a hero, by the Scottish.
Throughout mankind’s history, many have questioned what a leader is. Who would qualify for such a noble role? It can be somebody who guides others in a certain direction. In other words, a leader can show people where to go, what to do and how to do it. When Scotland’s fortunes were at their lowest, when the Scots were oppressed and their nation torn apart, a man emerged from obscurity like a meteor in the sky. A young Scot named William Wallace, would define himself much greater than a leader. He took action when it was necessary, risking his own life to save the lives of others. (J.Wilton) He led – being the first in battle. Wallace proved himself before he became leader. He knew his goal – his objective – and was unswayed by expediency to compromise his character. He had commitment, or in Robert the Bruce’s words -“Fire!”. At heart, William Wallace would never yield his freedom for a peaceful life in bondage. He would never settle for less. Thus we find Wallace refusing to accept a bribe of titles and lands, unlike the Scottish nobility, because he knew that would make him a slave to the English king; Edward I (E.Lortz). Wallace kept his
Near the end of the 13th century, Scotland gave birth to a legendary hero who would later free his nation from their English brethren. A man who pledged his life, his fortune, and his sacred honor for the liberty of his men. This champion- they called Sir William Wallace. After England took control of the nation in the 1300s, Wallace soon became Scotland’s “ultimate hope” and his victory is still talked about by the Scottish people today. Whether it was his wise tactics against the English or his daring patriotism, William successfully led the Scots to triumph. Without William Wallace’s military power and inspirational leadership, Scotland would have never prevailed in gaining its independence and therefore he is and continues to be honored as a hero, by the Scottish.
Throughout mankind’s history, many have questioned what a leader is. Who would qualify for such a noble role? It can be somebody who guides others in a certain direction. In other words, a leader can show people where to go, what to do and how to do it. When Scotland’s fortunes were at their lowest, when the Scots were oppressed and their nation torn apart, a man emerged from obscurity like a meteor in the sky. A young Scot named William Wallace, would define himself much greater than a leader. He took action when it was necessary, risking his own life to save the lives of others. (J.Wilton) He led – being the first in battle. Wallace proved himself before he became leader. He knew his goal – his objective – and was unswayed by expediency to compromise his character. He had commitment, or in Robert the Bruce’s words -“Fire!”. At heart, William Wallace would never yield his freedom for a peaceful life in bondage. He would never settle for less. Thus we find Wallace refusing to accept a bribe of titles and lands, unlike the Scottish nobility, because he knew that would make him a slave to the English king; Edward I (E.Lortz). Wallace kept his