Gospatric II, Earl of Lothian facts for kids

Gospatric II (died 1138) was an important leader in northern England and southern Scotland during the early 12th century. He held the title of Earl of Lothian or Earl of Dunbar.

Gospatric II was the son of Gospatric I, who was once the Earl of Northumbria. In some of the oldest records, from around 1120 to 1134, Gospatric II was not called "earl." Instead, he was known as the "brother of Dolfin." This title even appeared on his own seal.

Gospatric's Lands and Influence

Some stories say that King Máel Coluim III gave Gospatric II his lands. However, it's also possible he inherited them from his father. His brother, Dolfin, received a large area called Cumberland.

Because Gospatric held land from both King David I of Scotland and King Henry I of England, it's hard to say if he was "English" or "Scottish." He was an important figure in both kingdoms. He also witnessed a special document from King Alexander I of Scotland that helped create Scone Abbey.

Rising to Power

Gospatric II gained a lot of power and land during the reign of King Henry I of England. This was a time when native Englishmen were becoming more important again. Gospatric and his children received many lands in England. He also gained control over some legal duties in northern England. By the year 1134, he was officially called an "earl" in important documents.

Death at the Battle of the Standard

Earl Gospatric was known as "the chief leader of the men of Lothian." Sadly, he was killed in 1138 at the Battle of the Standard. He was hit by an arrow and fell during the fight.

Family of Gospatric II

Gospatric II had four sons:

• Gospatric III, who became the next earl.
• Adam
• Edward
• Edgar

He also had a daughter named Juliana. Juliana married a man named Ralph de Merlay. Together, Ralph and Juliana founded a place called Newminster Abbey.