James Douglas, 2nd Earl of Queensberry facts for kids
James Douglas, 2nd Earl of Queensberry (born before 1622 – died 1671) was an important Scottish nobleman and politician. He was also a Covenanter, which meant he supported a special agreement in Scotland about religion and the king's power.
Life of James Douglas
James Douglas was the second son of William Douglas, 1st Earl of Queensberry. When his father passed away in 1640, James inherited several important titles. He became the 2nd Earl of Queensberry, the 2nd Viscount of Drumlanrig, and the 2nd Lord Douglas of Hawick and Tibberis. These titles showed his high rank in Scottish society.
In 1642, James was given a special job to help the government. He supported King Charles I during the English Civil War. This was a big conflict in England, Scotland, and Ireland. After the Battle of Kilsyth in 1645, James was captured and held in Carlisle.
Later, he had to pay a large fine of 120,000 Scots merks. This was a type of old Scottish money. He was also fined another £4,000 under a special law called "Cromwell's Act of Grace." This law offered a conditional pardon, meaning he was forgiven under certain conditions. In 1661, James became a Commissioner of Excise, which meant he helped collect taxes. Two years later, in 1663, he was made a justice of the peace, a role similar to a local judge.
Family Life
James Douglas was married twice. His first marriage was to Mary Hamilton in 1630. She was the third daughter of James Hamilton, 2nd Marquess of Hamilton. Sadly, Mary passed away in 1633, and they did not have any children together.
His second marriage was to Margaret Stewart in 1635. She was the daughter of John Stewart, 1st Earl of Traquair. James and Margaret had many children:
- William (1637–1695) became the 3rd Earl and later the 1st Duke of Queensberry.
- James (1645–1691) became a Lieutenant-General in the army.
- John passed away in 1675 during the Siege of Trier.
- Robert passed away in 1676 during the Siege of Maastricht.
- Mary married Alexander Stewart, 3rd Earl of Galloway.
- Isabel married William Lockhart, 1st Baronet of Lockhart.
- Catherine married Sir James Douglas, 1st Baronet of Kelhead.
- Margaret married Sir Alexander Jardine, 1st Baronet of Applegirth.
- Henrietta (1657–1736) married Sir Robert Grierson, 1st Baronet of Lag.
