Alexander Douglas (bishop-designate) facts for kids
Alexander Douglas was a Scottish nobleman and a priest who lived around the year 1528. He was the son of Sir Archibald Douglas of Kilspindie, who held an important job as the Treasurer of Scotland. The Treasurer was in charge of the country's money.
Alexander Douglas was part of a powerful family called the House of Douglas.
A Chance to Become Bishop
After a church leader named Robert Shaw, who was the Bishop of Moray, passed away, Alexander Douglas was chosen by the King to take his place. A bishop is a high-ranking leader in the church.
At this time, King James V of Scotland was still very young, so his relative, Archibald Douglas, 6th Earl of Angus, was in charge of Scotland. Angus was Alexander Douglas's kinsman, meaning they were related.
Political Challenges
However, Alexander Douglas's appointment was not easy. Another powerful person, John Stewart, Duke of Albany, was a rival of Angus. Albany wanted his own brother, Alexander Stewart, to become the Bishop of Moray instead.
In late 1528, Angus lost his power and influence in Scotland. Because his powerful relative was no longer in control, Alexander Douglas's chance to become bishop also ended.
What Happened Next
After this, Alexander Douglas mostly disappears from historical records. It was Alexander Stewart, Albany's brother, who eventually became the Bishop of Moray.
Even though Alexander Douglas didn't become bishop, his name sometimes appears on old lists of bishops. He is sometimes called Alexander Douglas I to tell him apart from another family member, Alexander Douglas II, who lived later.
See Also
- Bishop of Moray
- House of Douglas and Angus
