Archibald Douglas, 13th of Cavers facts for kids

Archibald Douglas, 13th of Cavers was an important Scottish politician. He lived during a time of big changes in Scotland, including the joining of the Scottish and English Parliaments. Douglas was known for standing up for his beliefs and for his family's long history in the Scottish Borders.

He was born into an old family from Roxburghshire with strong Covenanter traditions. Covenanters were a group in Scotland who wanted to protect their Presbyterian church and its independence from the King.

Early Life and Family

Archibald Douglas came from a family with a long history in Roxburghshire. His father, William Douglas, 11th of Cavers, faced difficulties because he disagreed with the government at the time. He lost his family's traditional role as sheriff.

Archibald's mother, Katherine Rigg, known as 'good Lady Cavers', was even held in Stirling Castle in 1682. She was released a few years later. She had to choose between changing her beliefs or leaving Scotland. She chose to move to England.

Family's Return to Power

When the Glorious Revolution happened in 1688, things changed for the Douglas family. Their important family roles and lands were given back to them. Archibald took over the sheriffdom and the Cavers estate in 1698 after his older brother, William, passed away.

Political Career

Archibald Douglas was a very active politician. In 1701, before Scotland and England officially joined, he became one of the four representatives, called Commissioners, for Roxburghshire in the Scottish Parliament.

Standing Up to Powerful Rivals

In Parliament, Archibald Douglas often disagreed with the powerful Duke of Roxburghe. He continued to oppose the Duke's political influence in both the Scottish and later the British Parliaments. He was very successful in these political battles. His son, William, even said in 1712 that Archibald had the power to decide who would represent their county in Parliament.

Roles in Government

After the Union of Scotland and England in 1707, Archibald Douglas became a Member of Parliament (MP) in the new 1st Parliament of Great Britain. He served from 1707 to 1708. Later, he was an MP for Dumfries burghs from 1727 to 1734.

Besides being an MP, he held other important jobs. He was the Receiver-general for Scotland from 1705 to 1718, which meant he managed some of the government's money. He also became the postmaster-general in 1725, in charge of the postal service.

Personal Life and Legacy

Archibald Douglas married Anna, who was the daughter of Francis Scott of Gorrenberry.

He passed away in 1741. His estate, Cavers, was passed down through his four sons, one after the other.