The death of King Alexander III of Scotland and his only direct descendant Margaret, "Maid of Norway", triggered a succession crisis in Scotland. King Edward I of England was asked to arbitrate. This work covers how Edward's attempts to undermine Scottish independence led to Scottish unrest. In May 1297 William Wallace murdered the Sheriff of Lanark, sparking open revolt. Defeating the English at Stirling Bridge, Wallace led his men into battle with the returned Edward I at Falkirk on 22 July 1298. Amid accusations of treachery, Wallace's spearmen were practically annihilated, leading to Wallace's execution and a re-establishment of Scottish control by Edward and his men.