Donnchadh III, Earl of Fife facts for kids

Donnchadh III, also known as Duncan, was an important leader in Scotland. He held the title of Earl of Fife (or Mormaer) from about 1270 or 1272 until 1288. A Mormaer was a powerful ruler of a large area in early Scotland, similar to an Earl.

Donnchadh became Mormaer when he was just a child. His father, Colbán of Fife, who was the previous Mormaer, had died young.

Donnchadh's Early Life and Role

When Donnchadh was too young to rule by himself, a trusted person was chosen to look after his lands. This period is called his "minority." During this time, William Wishart, who was the Bishop of St Andrews, became the custos (or guardian) of the Mormaerdom of Fife.

There were some disagreements over land during this time. The Bishop took some lands from the Clan MacDuff, a very important family in Fife. Later, Edward I of England, who was the King of England, ordered that these lands be given back.

A Guardian of Scotland

Donnchadh grew up to become a significant figure in Scottish politics. He was chosen as one of the Guardians of Scotland. These Guardians were a group of noblemen who were in charge of governing Scotland. They managed the country when the King was not present or when there was no King.

In 1284, Donnchadh joined other Scottish noblemen. They all agreed that Margaret of Norway should be the next ruler of Scotland. She was the granddaughter of Alexander III of Scotland, the King at that time, and was expected to become Queen.

Family Life

Donnchadh married a woman named Johanna, also known as Joan. She was the daughter of Gilbert de Clare, 7th Earl of Gloucester.

Donnchadh and Johanna had at least two sons. One son was named Duncan, who would later become Mormaer after his father. They also had another son whose name is not known, but he was called MacDuibh, which means "son of Duff." This name showed he was a leader of the Clann mac Duib family. Donnchadh also had a daughter named Isabella MacDuff. She married John Comyn, Earl of Buchan, another important Scottish nobleman.

The End of His Rule

Donnchadh's last known appearance in historical records was in a document from August 1289. He was killed in September at Pittillock, which is near Falkland, Fife. He was on his way to Dunfermline, which was an important center for the Scottish government back then.

Donnchadh was buried at Cupar Abbey.