John Campbell, Earl of Atholl facts for kids
John Campbell, Earl of Atholl (died 1333) was an important Scottish nobleman who lived a long time ago. He held the special title of Earl of Atholl, which meant he was a powerful leader in Scotland during a time of many changes.
Early Life and Family
John Campbell, also sometimes called Iain, was the son of Sir Neil Campbell. His mother was Mary Bruce. This made him connected to some very important families in Scotland.
In 1316, John inherited land that had been taken from another nobleman named David Strathbogie. This inheritance was a big step for him. Around 1320, he was given the title of Earl of Atholl. However, David Strathbogie's son, David III Strathbogie, also believed he should have that title. This led to a disagreement over who was the rightful Earl.
Marriage and Legacy
John Campbell was married to a woman named Joan. She had been married before to Malise IV, Earl of Strathearn. Joan was the daughter of Sir John de Menteith. John and Joan did not have any children together.
The Battle of Halidon Hill
John Campbell's life ended on 19 July 1333, during a major battle called Halidon Hill. He was one of five Scottish earls who died in this important fight. Because he had no children, his title of Earl of Atholl ended when he died.
After John's death, David III Strathbogie, who had lost his family's lands, officially claimed the Earldom of Atholl for himself. John Campbell's widow, Joan Menteith, later married two more times. Her next husbands were Maurice de Moravia, Earl of Strathearn and then William de Moravia, 5th Earl of Sutherland.
