Battle of Mamsha facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Battle of Mamsha |
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| Part of Clan Fraser of Lovat and Clan Donald feuds | |||||||
  Clan crests of Clan Fraser of Lovat (left) and Clan Donald (right) |
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| Belligerents | |||||||
| Clan Fraser of Lovat | Clan Donald | ||||||
| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
| Hugh Fraser, 3rd Lord Fraser | Alexander of Islay, Earl of Ross | ||||||
| Strength | |||||||
| Unknown | Unknown | ||||||
| Casualties and losses | |||||||
| Unknown | Unknown | ||||||
The Battle of Mamsha was an important fight between two powerful Scottish families, the Clan Fraser of Lovat and the Clan Donald. It happened in 1429 in the Scottish Highlands. In this battle, the Clan Fraser of Lovat successfully defended their land against the Clan Donald.
Why Did the Battle of Mamsha Happen?
In 1429, Alexander of Islay, Earl of Ross, who was the chief of Clan Donald, attacked Inverness. He tried to capture Inverness Castle and burned down the town. Hugh Fraser, the leader of the Clan Fraser of Lovat, had blocked Alexander's path earlier. This made Alexander angry.
Alexander of Islay wanted to punish Hugh Fraser and his people. He gathered more fighters from the west. Soon, his force grew stronger every day. He then decided to lay siege to Fraser's home, Lovat Castle.
However, the Frasers were ready. They had many warriors and attacked the MacDonalds near Lovat. People from the local area also helped. They attacked any MacDonalds who strayed from their main group. The Frasers fought the MacDonalds at a place called Fanellan. Because of these attacks, the MacDonalds had to give up their siege and retreat.
How the Battle of Mamsha Unfolded
As the MacDonalds retreated, several smaller fights broke out. These were like mini-battles along their path. When the MacDonalds reached a moor (an open, uncultivated area) called Caiplich, they stopped. This spot was a few miles west of Inverness. They decided to make a stand and fight.
The MacDonalds fought bravely and with great determination. But their efforts were not enough. The Clan Fraser of Lovat, along with their local supporters, defeated them. The MacDonalds were completely routed, meaning they were totally beaten and forced to flee. This important fight was remembered by the local people as the Battle of Mamsha.
What Happened After the Battle?
After their big defeat, the men of the Isles (Clan Donald) were very careful. For a long time, they did not try to cause trouble in the Fraser lands. This area, known as The Aird in Inverness-shire, became peaceful again.
