Guardian of Scotland facts for kids

The Great Seal made for the Government of Scotland after King Alexander III died.

The Guardians of Scotland were special leaders who governed the Kingdom of Scotland when there was no king, or when the king was too young to rule. They acted like temporary rulers, or regents. This happened from 1286 to 1292, and again from 1296 to 1306. Over time, the role of Guardian became a very important part of how Scotland was governed.

Guardians During the First Break in Kingship (1286–1292)

This first period without a king, called an "Interregnum," started when Alexander III of Scotland died in 1286. His only living grandchild was Margaret, Maid of Norway. She was a very young child living in Norway. Sadly, she died in 1290 before she could reach Scotland. Because there was no clear heir, it took until 1292 to decide who the next king would be. This decision was made through a special process called an "arbitration."

During this time, these people served as Guardians:

• William Fraser, who was the Bishop of St Andrews
• Robert Wishart, who was the Bishop of Glasgow
• John Comyn II of Badenoch
• James Stewart, 5th High Steward of Scotland
• Alexander Comyn, Earl of Buchan
• Donnchadh III, Earl of Fife

In 1290, the Scottish Parliament sent a letter confirming an important agreement called the Treaty of Salisbury. This letter listed some of the Guardians: "William of St Andrews and Robert of Glasgow bishops, John Comyn and James the Steward of Scotland, guardians of the kingdom of Scotland."

• Bryan FitzAlan, Lord FitzAlan also served as a Guardian for a period starting in 1291.

Guardians During the Second Break in Kingship (1296–1306)

This second period of Guardianship happened during a very difficult time for Scotland. It was a time of conflict with England.

Guardians During King David II's Childhood and Reign

Guardians were also needed when David II was a child, and later when he was captured.

• Sir Thomas Randolph, 1st Earl of Moray (1329–1332) was chosen to be Guardian.
• Donald, Earl of Mar (1332) served as Guardian for only ten days.
• Sir Andrew Moray of Bothwell (1332) became Guardian but was captured by the English.
• Sir Archibald Douglas (1332) was Guardian until he died in battle in 1333.
• Sir Andrew Moray of Bothwell served a second time (1335–1338) until he passed away.
• Robert the Steward was David's nephew and would later become king. Robert was Guardian four times, sometimes with others. He also served twice when David was held prisoner in England after the Battle of Neville's Cross (1346–1357). During these years, Robert gained a lot of power in Scotland.

See also

In Spanish: Guardián de Escocia para niños

• Competitors for the crown of Scotland
• List of regents in Scotland
• History of Scotland
• Politics of Scotland