While Mel Gibson's sprawling Scottish epic Braveheart earned plenty of accolades from moviegoers (and from Oscar), the film's loose portrayal of historical events wasn't as popular among well-read scholars. This installment of A&E's "History's Mysteries" series dissects the truth -- and myth -- surrounding the legendary William Wallace, from his victory against King Edward I at Falkirk to his eventual execution in 1305.

His is as famous today as he was in the 14th century, compelling Scots to seek independence and rejuvenating pride. William Wallace is considered the savior of Scotland - but is his life more myth than history?

Randall Wallace's Braveheart is central to the Scottish hero's modern popularity, yet experts agree that the film is rife with inaccuracy. The True Story of Braveheart reconstructs the life of William Wallace, a man who heroically rallied his people in the Scottish Wars of Independence. Wallace rose from a modest birth to "guardian" of Scotland at a meteoric rate. Even his gruesome execution in 1305 didn't quell his ascendance - instead, he became a martyr. Original documents, interviews with historians, and lively reenactments chronicle Wallace's emergence as a national hero.

The History Channel® proudly presents a comprehensive portrait of William Wallace, icon of freedom.