George Douglas (martyr) facts for kids
George Douglas was an important person from history. He lived a long time ago, from about 1540 to 1587. He is known as one of the Eighty-five martyrs of England and Wales. A martyr is someone who dies for their beliefs.
Early Life and Calling
George was born in Edinburgh, Scotland. At first, he worked as a teacher. His family came from a place called Bonjedward, close to Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders.
George became a Catholic. Around 1556, he went to France. In 1574, he became a secular priest in Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. This might have happened with help from Mary, Queen of Scots.
Serving as a Priest
After becoming a priest, George Douglas returned to England. He worked as a priest in York, in the north of England. He also served people in the East Midlands.
During this time, it was difficult to be a Catholic priest in England. The country was mostly Protestant under Queen Elizabeth I.
Arrest and Legacy
George Douglas was arrested in York. He was found to be encouraging people to follow the Catholic faith. This was against the laws at the time.
He was executed on 9 September 1587. Many years later, on 22 November 1987, Pope John Paul II declared him "blessed." This means he was recognized for his strong faith.
See also
- Patrick Hamilton (martyr)
- George Wishart
- List of Protestant martyrs of the Scottish Reformation
- Saint John Ogilvie
- Forty Martyrs of England and Wales
- List of Catholic martyrs of the English Reformation
- John Black (martyr)
- William Gibson (martyr)
- John Ingram (martyr)
- Patrick Primrose
- Hugh Barclay of Ladyland, David Graham, Laird of Fintry, Spanish blanks plot
- Alexander Cameron (priest)
