Gille Críst, Earl of Menteith facts for kids
Gille Críst was an important ruler in Scotland long ago. He was the first person we know of who held the title of Mormaer of Menteith. A Mormaer was like a powerful regional leader, similar to an earl or a count in other countries. Even though he's the first one recorded, it's likely there were other rulers in Menteith before him.
Who Was Gille Críst?
Gille Críst was a significant figure in 12th-century Scotland. He was the Mormaer of Menteith, a region in central Scotland. This title meant he was a powerful local ruler, managing the land and people in his area. Mormaers were very important for keeping order and supporting the king during this time.
Early Mentions in History
We know about Gille Críst because his name appears in official documents called charters. These charters were like important legal papers or agreements from the past.
One of the earliest mentions of Gille Críst is in a charter from King Malcolm IV of Scotland. This document was written in 1164. It talked about rebuilding Scone Priory, which was a religious building that had been damaged by fire. Gille Críst's name on this charter shows he was a trusted and important person to the king.
He also appeared in another charter from King William I of Scotland, often called William the Lion. This document was from around 1175 to 1178. In this charter, Gille Críst was a witness to a special agreement. This agreement gave new rights and benefits to the town of Glasgow, which was just starting to grow as a burgh (a type of town with special trading rights). Being a witness meant he was a respected leader.
His Family and Legacy
Gille Críst had a family that continued his line. He had two sons whose names we know: Muireadhach Mór and Muireadhach Óg. Both of his sons would later become Mormaers of Menteith themselves.
He also had a daughter named Éua. She married Ailín II, Earl of Lennox, who was another important ruler of a different region in Scotland. This marriage helped connect powerful families in the country.
Gille Críst likely passed away sometime between 1189 and 1198. After his death, his son, Muireadhach Mór, took over as the Mormaer of Menteith. This shows how important family lines were in passing down power and titles during this period in Scottish history.
