Donnchadh, Earl of Mar facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Donnchadh
|
|
|---|---|
| Earl of Mar | |
| In office 1203–1244 |
|
Donnchadh of Mar (also known as Duncan) was an important leader in Scotland during the 1200s. He was the fifth known Mormaer of Marr, a title similar to an Earl. He held this position from 1203 until his death in 1244.
Becoming the Earl of Mar
Donnchadh was the son of Morggán and Agnes. He became the Earl of Mar because of a new rule called primogeniture. This rule meant that the oldest son would inherit everything.
How Primogeniture Helped Donnchadh
Before primogeniture, inheritance rules could be complicated. This new rule helped Donnchadh and his family keep control of their lands. It meant that other family lines, like the descendants of Gille Críst, could not claim the title.
This change in how titles were passed down was likely introduced by King William I. Donnchadh may have been very grateful for this. He even named his oldest son, William, after the King.
Donnchadh's Family Life
Donnchadh married a woman named Orabillis of Nessius. Together, they had at least one son, William. William later followed in his father's footsteps and became the next Earl of Mar. Donnchadh passed away in the year 1244.
