Donald Balloch MacDonald facts for kids

Donald Balloch MacDonald (in Scottish Gaelic: Dòmhnall Ballach Mac Dhòmhnaill) was a powerful Scottish-Gaelic leader. He was an important figure in the history of Clan MacDonald of Dunnyveg. He passed away around the year 1476.

Donald Balloch's Life

Donald Balloch MacDonald was the son of John Mór Tanister and Margery Byset. His mother was the daughter of MacEoin Bisset, a lord from a place called The Glens. Donald became the second leader, or "lord," of the Clan MacDonald of Dunnyveg.

Becoming a Leader

Donald took over as leader after a sad event in 1427. His father was killed by James Campbell on the Isle of Islay. Campbell was working for James I of Scotland, the King. King James later had James Campbell executed for this crime.

A Great Battle

Donald Balloch was known as a strong military leader. The Clan Donald chose him to lead their forces. They wanted to show their strength after their chief, Alexander of Islay, Earl of Ross, had to surrender to the King in 1429.

The entire Clan Donald gathered their army under Donald Balloch's command. He was Alexander's cousin. The King's army was waiting in Lochaber, led by the Earls of Mar and Caithness.

In 1431, a big fight happened called the Battle of Inverlochy. Donald Balloch led Clan Donald to a huge victory. The King's army was completely defeated, and many soldiers were lost.

After the Battle

After his victory, Donald Balloch returned home with his spoils of war. He went back to the Isles and then to his lands in Antrim, which is in Ireland.

King James I was not happy about this. He asked Hugh Buy O'Neill, an Irish chief, to capture Donald. The King wanted Donald sent to him, dead or alive. Someone even presented a head, claiming it was Donald's. But it was not! Donald was still alive and lived for many more years.

Donald also found love during this time. He married O'Neill's daughter. After King James I died, Donald returned to Dunnyveg on Islay in 1437. He lived there until his death around 1476. He died on a small island in Loch Gruinart, Islay.

Donald Balloch's Family

Donald Balloch MacDonald had children with two wives.

First Marriage

His first wife was Johanna. She was the daughter of Conn O'Neill of Edenduffcarrick. Together, they had:

• John Mor MacDonald, who married Sabina O'Neill. Sabina was the daughter of Phelim Bacagh O'Neill.
• Margaret, born around 1414. She married Ruari MacDonald, who was the 3rd leader of Clan Ranald.

Second Marriage

His second wife was Joan. She was the daughter of O'Donnell, the Lord of Tyrconnel. They had:

• Agnes, who married Thomas Bannatyne of Knraes.