"But did the clouds rain fire, and the earth open beneath me, I would not stir; for I know Who planted me here; and as long as He wills me to stand, neither men nor devils can move me hence!" — William Wallace In 1296, the nobles of Scotland, together with their weak King Baliol, placed Scotland under the tyrannical rule of King Edward I of England. This led to a fierce struggle for Scottish independence (1296-1305)—led by the brave valor and heroic feats of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. Originally written in 1810, during the romantic era, The Scottish Chiefs has been considered one of the greatest historical novels ever written and still remains a popular book amongst Scottish children.