Sir John Stewart of Menteith, known for his loyalty to the English crown during the First Scottish War of Independence, played a pivotal role in the capture of Sir William Wallace. The events unfolded near Dumbarton, where Wallace, a symbol of resistance against English oppression, had gained significant notoriety for his leadership in the fight for Scottish independence. Stewart’s successful capture of Wallace on this day not only displayed his strategic prowess but also illustrated the disarray among Wallace's forces in the face of sustained English pressure. Stewart's allegiance to the English king culminated in his gaining considerable power and influence within Scotland, as he positioned himself as an ally of the crown against the rebels.

Wallace’s incarceration marked the beginning of a grim fate. Following his capture, he was transported to London, where he faced a highly publicized trial for treason. The proceedings served as both a warning to other dissenters and a means to assert English authority over Scotland. The execution of Wallace was particularly brutal; it included hanging, evisceration, drawing and quartering, and beheading, emphasizing the lengths to which the English would go to suppress resistance. This cruel treatment of Wallace was intended to deter others from following in his footsteps, but it instead solidified his legacy as a martyr for Scotland’s independence.

The legacy of Wallace's capture and execution would extend beyond his death. Despite the immediate impact of Stewart’s actions to quash the rebellion, Wallace's spirit became an enduring symbol of Scottish nationalism. His story inspired future generations to fight for freedom, and his image was later romanticized in literature and cinema, establishing him as a national hero. The consequences of his downfall would fuel the Scottish desire for independence, culminating in future uprisings against English rule, most notably the Wars of Scottish Independence that followed.