James Ogilvy, 1st Earl of Airlie facts for kids

James Ogilvy, 1st Earl of Airlie (born around 1593 – died 1666) was an important Scottish noble. He was a strong supporter of the king during a time of big conflicts in Scotland, England, and Ireland. These conflicts are known as the Wars of the Three Kingdoms.

Early Life and Becoming a Lord

James Ogilvy was born around 1593. His father was James Ogilvy, 6th Lord Ogilvy of Airlie. His mother was Lady Jean Ruthven. When his father passed away around 1618, James became the new Lord Ogilvy. This meant he inherited his father's title and lands.

Supporting the King

James Ogilvy was a "royalist." This means he strongly supported King Charles I. At this time, there was a big disagreement in Scotland. The king and his court were clashing with a group called the Scottish Presbyterians. These Presbyterians wanted to change how the church was run in Scotland.

Because of Ogilvy's loyalty, King Charles I gave him a special new title. On April 2, 1639, the king made him the Earl of Airlie. This was a very important honor.

Challenges and Conflicts

During a conflict known as the Bishops' War, James Ogilvy faced many difficulties. His lands were damaged, and his homes were even torn down. This war was about the king trying to make the Scottish church more like the English church.

In April 1640, he went to the king's court. He wanted to avoid signing an agreement called the Covenant. This Covenant was a promise to support the Presbyterian church.

However, he later returned to Scotland. He was present in the Scottish Parliament in 1643. This Parliament was controlled by the Covenanters.

Joining Montrose

In 1644, James Ogilvy and his three sons joined James Graham, 1st Marquess of Montrose. Montrose was a famous general who fought for the king. Because of this, the Scottish Parliament punished them. On February 11, 1645, they lost their titles and lands. This is called being "forfeited."

They were also not included in a peace agreement. On July 27, 1647, the Church of Scotland officially removed them from the church. This is called being "excommunicated."

Later Life

Despite these challenges, James Ogilvy received a pardon. On July 23, 1646, he was given a promise of safety. This came from Major-general John Middleton. Middleton was working to bring peace to northern Scotland.

Because of this, the Parliament had to give back his titles and lands. This happened on March 17, 1647. After this, James Ogilvy did not take part in public life anymore. He passed away in 1666.

Family Life

Around 1614, James Ogilvy married Lady Isabel Hamilton. She was the daughter of Thomas Hamilton, 1st Earl of Haddington. They had three sons and two daughters together.

Their sons were James Ogilvy, 2nd Earl of Airlie, Sir Thomas, and Sir David Ogilvy. One of their daughters, Isabel, was very brave. She helped her brother James escape from a castle. He was supposed to be executed the next day. Isabel never married. Her sister, Elizabeth, married Sir John Carnegie in 1642.