Archibald Campbell, 4th Earl of Argyll facts for kids

Archibald Campbell, also known as Archibald "the Red" Campbell, was an important Scottish nobleman and politician. He lived from about 1507 to 1558. He held the title of the 4th Earl of Argyll. An Earl was a powerful leader who managed a large area of land and helped the King. Archibald played a big role in Scottish politics during a time of major changes.

Life of Archibald Campbell

Becoming the Earl of Argyll

Archibald Campbell was the oldest son of Colin Campbell, the 3rd Earl of Argyll. His mother was Lady Jean Gordon. When his father passed away in 1529, Archibald became the new Earl of Argyll. He also took over his father's important jobs.

Challenges and Changes

Right after becoming Earl, Archibald was sent to stop a rebellion in the Scottish Isles. The local chiefs quickly gave up. However, one chief, Alexander MacDonald, told King James V of Scotland that the Earls of Argyll were using their power for themselves. Because of this, Archibald was asked to explain how he managed the Isles. He was even put in prison for a short time. He lost his official jobs, but got them back after King James V died.

In 1542, Archibald was given the title "master of the king's wine cellar." This was another important role in the royal household.

Political Struggles in Scotland

After King James V died, his young daughter Mary, Queen of Scots, became queen. Scotland needed a new leader. Archibald Campbell was named one of the King's Council. This group helped govern the country.

Scotland faced a big decision: should Queen Mary marry an English prince or a French prince? King Henry VIII of England wanted Mary to marry his son, Prince Edward. Archibald and other Scottish leaders did not agree with this plan. They gathered an army and made the governor of Scotland give them control of the young Queen Mary. They took her to Stirling Castle to keep her safe.

Fighting for Scotland

In 1544, Matthew Stewart, 4th Earl of Lennox, who was on England's side, attacked parts of Scotland. He had ships and soldiers from King Henry VIII. Archibald Campbell and his men fought back. They defended Dunoon Castle against Lennox's attacks. Even though Archibald's forces suffered losses, Lennox eventually had to retreat. After this, Archibald was given more land and power.

Archibald also led a part of the Scottish army at the Battle of Pinkie in 1547. This was a major battle against the English. Later, he was honored by the King of France and became a "Knight of the Cockle."

Religious Changes

Archibald Campbell was influenced by John Knox, a famous Scottish religious leader. Knox visited Archibald at his home, Castle Campbell. Archibald became interested in the new ideas of the Scottish Reformation. This was a time when many people wanted to change the way the church was run. Archibald even protected a preacher named John Douglas. He also wrote a detailed letter explaining his beliefs to the Archbishop of St. Andrews.

Archibald Campbell passed away in 1558. He was buried at Kilmun Parish Church in Scotland. His son, also named Archibald Campbell, 5th Earl of Argyll, became the next Earl.

Family Life

Archibald Campbell was married three times and had several children.

His first wife was Lady Helen Hamilton. They had two children:

• Archibald Campbell, 5th Earl of Argyll
• Lady Janet Campbell

His second wife was Lady Margaret Graham. They had three children:

• Colin Campbell, 6th Earl of Argyll
• Lady Margaret Campbell
• Lady Jeanette (or Janet) Campbell
• Lady Agnes Campbell

His third wife was Catherine Maclean.

Archibald also had two other children:

• Mary Campbell
• Agnes Campbell

See Also

• Earl of Argyll
• Clan Campbell