Following the defeat at the Battle of Falkirk and his resignation as Guardian of Scotland, William Wallace’s role in the Scottish resistance changed. He became less of a military leader and more of a diplomat, seeking to garner international support for Scotland’s cause. However, he remained a symbol of defiance against English rule and a target for English forces.
Wallace’s capture came about in 1305, a result of betrayal by a Scottish knight, Sir John Menteith. He was arrested near Glasgow and immediately transported to London, where he was put on trial. The charges against him were severe: treason against King Edward I (a charge Wallace vehemently denied, stating he had never sworn fealty to Edward), and atrocities against civilians in war, among others.
The brutal manner of his death only served to fuel the Scottish resistance and cement Wallace’s status as a martyr for the cause of Scottish independence.
Source: https://www.historyskills.com/classroom/year-8/william-wallace/
