Domhnall II, Earl of Mar facts for kids

Domhnall II, Earl of Mar, lived from before 1305 until 1332. He was an important Scottish noble. For a short time, he served as the Regent of Scotland. A regent is someone who rules a country when the king is too young. Domhnall was regent while David II, King of Scotland was still a child.

Early Life and English Capture

Domhnall's father was Gartnait, Earl of Mar. His mother's name is not fully known. She may have been a daughter of Robert Bruce, Earl of Carrick.

In 1306, Domhnall was captured by the English. He was very young at the time, almost a baby. Because he was so young, he was treated kindly. He lived in the home of the Bishop of Bristol.

Domhnall stayed a prisoner in England for many years. He was released after the famous Battle of Bannockburn. This battle was a big victory for Scotland. Even after his release, Domhnall chose to stay in England.

Fighting for England

While in England, Domhnall fought in battles. In 1322, he fought alongside the English. He was against the Scots at the Battle of Old Byland. It also seems he fought for Edward II of England. This was at the Battle of Boroughbridge in March 1322.

After this battle, Domhnall took a captured opponent to Canterbury. This shows his loyalty to the English king at that time.

Switching to the Scottish Side

Things changed when Edward II was no longer king. Domhnall then decided to join the Scottish side. He became a leader in the Scottish army. He led one of the three Scottish groups at the Battle of Stanhope Park.

Becoming Regent of Scotland

In 1332, the previous regent of Scotland died. This was Thomas Randolph, 1st Earl of Moray. On August 2, Scottish nobles met in Perth. They chose Domhnall to be the new regent. This was a very important job.

Battle of Dupplin Moor and Death

Soon after Domhnall became regent, Scotland faced an invasion. Edward Balliol attacked with support from Edward III of England. Domhnall led the Scottish loyalists to fight them.

However, the Scots were defeated. This happened at the Battle of Dupplin Moor. Domhnall was killed in this battle. He had been regent for only nine days.

Family

Domhnall married Isabella Stewart. She was the daughter of Sir Alexander Stewart of Bonkyll. Domhnall and Isabella had two children. Their son was named Thomas of Mar. Their daughter was named Margaret of Mar. Margaret later became Countess of Mar after her brother.