George Gordon, 2nd Earl of Huntly facts for kids

George Gordon, 2nd Earl of Huntly (died 8 June 1501) was an important Scottish nobleman. He served as the Chancellor of Scotland from 1498 to 1501. This was a very high position, like being a chief advisor to the king.

Early Life and Family

George Gordon was born around 1441. His father was Alexander Gordon, 1st Earl of Huntly, and his mother was Elizabeth Crichton. George is first mentioned in records in 1441. At that time, lands were set aside for him and his future family.

For a while, George used the name "Sir George Seton, knight." But by 1458, he began using the name Gordon. He was known as George, Lord Gordon, and looked after important castles. These included Kildrummy Castle, Kindrochit Castle, and Inverness Castle.

Becoming Earl of Huntly

George took over from his father as the Earl of Huntly around July 1470. This made him a powerful leader in Scotland.

Public Service and Role

Soon after becoming Earl, George Gordon helped the king, James III of Scotland, deal with problems. He was involved in a conflict with the Earl of Ross. The king wanted to stop this private war.

Later, in 1479, George became a "justiciary" for the northern part of Scotland. This meant he was a chief judge. His main job was to help stop fights between different clans in the Highlands.

Serving as Chancellor

In 1497, George Gordon was given a great honor. He was made the High Chancellor of Scotland. This was a very important job, helping the king run the country. He served as Chancellor until 1500.

George, the second Earl of Huntly, passed away at Stirling Castle on June 8, 1501.

Marriages and Children

George Gordon was married three times. His first marriage was to Lady Elizabeth Dunbar in 1455. This marriage was later ended.

His second marriage was to Princess Annabella of Scotland. She was the youngest daughter of King James I of Scotland. This marriage also ended later, in 1471.

George Gordon had many children. It is not always clear which child belonged to which marriage. Some of his notable children include:

• Alexander Gordon, 3rd Earl of Huntly (who became the next Earl)
• Lady Isabella Gordon
• Adam Gordon
• William Gordon
• James Gordon
• Lady Janet Gordon
• Lady Elizabeth Gordon

Third Marriage

After his second marriage ended, George married Lady Elizabeth Hay in 1476. They had more children together:

• Lady Catherine Gordon (died 1537) was a famous daughter. She married Perkin Warbeck, who claimed to be a lost prince. After Warbeck's death, she married three more times. King Henry VII of England called her "the White Rose."
• Lady Eleanor Gordon
• Lady Agnes Gordon

See also

•   "Gordon, George (d.1502?)". Dictionary of National Biography. (1885–1900). London: Smith, Elder & Co.