John Graham, 4th Earl of Menteith facts for kids

John Graham, 4th Earl of Menteith (born around 1529 – died around 1565), was an important Scottish nobleman in the 1500s. He became an Earl, which was a high-ranking title, when he was still quite young.

Becoming an Earl: John Graham's Early Life

John Graham became the Earl of Menteith after his father, William Graham, 3rd Earl of Menteith, passed away. This happened in late 1543 or early 1544. Because John was still young when his father died, he was not yet considered an adult in the eyes of the law.

He officially took on the title of Earl of Menteith in 1547. This suggests he had reached the age of majority, which means he was old enough to manage his own affairs and lands. His father had died during a conflict between different Scottish families.

Family Life and Marriage

In October 1548, Earl John Graham married Marion Seton. She was the daughter of George Seton, who was the 6th Lord Seton. After Earl John Graham passed away, Marion Seton married again.

Joining the Lords of the Congregation

In 1558, Earl John Graham joined a group called the Lords of the Congregation. This group was made up of Scottish nobles who supported the Protestant Reformation in Scotland. They played a big part in the religious changes happening in the country at that time. He also took part in the Siege of Leith, which was an important event during this period. Because of his actions, he was seen as a supporter of the Covenanters, who were people committed to the Protestant cause.

Earl John Graham passed away in late 1564 or early 1565. He had two sons: William, who became the next Earl of Menteith, and George.