Battle of Aberdeen (1646) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Aberdeen
Part of the Scottish Civil War
Date 14 May 1646 Location Aberdeen, Scotland Result Royalist Victory
Belligerents
Royalists	Covenanters
Commanders and leaders
Marquis of Huntly	Lord Montgomerie
Strength
1,500 foot 500 horse	700 foot 240 horse
Casualties and losses
	Many 300 captured

The Battle of Aberdeen was a fight that happened on May 14, 1646. It was part of a bigger conflict called the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. In this battle, a Royalist army led by George, Marquis of Huntly won against a group called the Covenanters. The Covenanters were led by Hugh, Lord Montgomerie.

Why the Battle Happened

In 1646, Lord Montgomerie was part of a military plan in northern Scotland. On April 27, he arrived in the city of Aberdeen. He had about 240 horsemen, also known as cavalry, and 700 foot soldiers. His job was to protect the city.

Meanwhile, the Marquis of Huntly had faced some difficulties earlier. He had gone to an area called Strathnaver in 1645. But he later returned to his lands around Strathbogie. There, he gathered a large force. His army grew to about 1,600 foot soldiers and 600 horsemen.

The Battle of Aberdeen

On May 14, Huntly's army attacked Aberdeen. He had about 1,500 foot soldiers and 500 horsemen. They stormed the city and even set parts of it on fire.

Montgomerie's soldiers tried to defend Aberdeen. They managed to push back Huntly's army two times. However, they were eventually overwhelmed by the larger Royalist force. Many Covenanter soldiers were hurt or killed. Over 300 of them were also captured as prisoners. Luckily, no ordinary citizens were harmed during the battle.

What Happened Next

After winning the battle, Huntly did not stay in Aberdeen for long. He soon returned to Strathbogie.

A group of military leaders held a meeting on June 8. They decided that Lord Montgomerie had done a very good job. They said he had acted "with as much prudence and gallantry as could have been expected." This meant he had shown great wisdom and bravery during the battle.