James Stewart, Duke of Ross facts for kids
James Stewart, Duke of Ross (born March 1476, died January 1504) was an important Scottish prince. He was the second son of King James III of Scotland and Queen Margaret of Denmark.
Contents
Becoming a Prince: Titles and Roles
James Stewart received many important titles and jobs during his life.
Early Titles
- When he was a baby, he was given the title of Marquess of Ormond.
- In 1481, he became the Earl of Ross. This title was taken from another powerful person, John, Lord of the Isles, and given to James.
A King's Favorite Son
James Stewart was his father King James III's favorite son. King James III even tried to arrange a marriage for him with Catherine of York, the daughter of King Edward IV of England. This special treatment made his older brother, who would later become King James IV, unhappy. It was one reason why his older brother rebelled against their father.
Becoming Duke of Ross
When his older brother became King James IV in 1488, James Stewart was only 12 years old. Even though his brother had been suspicious of him, King James IV made James Stewart a Duke. This was a very high title.
Church and Government Roles
- Around 1497, when he was 21, his brother the King chose him to be the Archbishop of St Andrews. This was a very powerful position in the church. The King might have done this to keep James Stewart busy and prevent him from rebelling. Also, because James Stewart was still young, the King could control the money that came with being an archbishop.
- In 1502, James Stewart also became the Lord Chancellor of Scotland. This meant he was a chief advisor to the King and played a big role in the government.
Why Two Jameses?
James Stewart had two brothers: King James IV of Scotland and John Stewart, Earl of Mar. You might wonder why two brothers were both named James. It was not unusual in Scotland during that time for brothers to share the same first name. Some people think that when the younger James was born, the older James was very sick. But we don't have clear proof for this idea.
Family Symbols: His Coat of Arms
The special symbols, or arms, of James Stewart, Duke of Ross, were like a family badge. They showed his connection to the royal family and other important families.
- The first and fourth parts of his shield showed the Royal Arms of Scotland.
- The second part had three red lions on a silver background, representing the Ross family.
- The third part had three red pointed shapes on a gold background, representing the Brechin family.
