John Randolph, 3rd Earl of Moray facts for kids
John Randolph, 3rd Earl of Moray (died 17 October 1346) was an important leader in Scotland. He lived during the reign of King David II of Scotland. For a time, he helped rule Scotland as a Regent.
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A Scottish Leader: John Randolph
John Randolph was the son of Thomas Randolph, 1st Earl of Moray. His father was a close friend and fighter alongside Robert the Bruce. John became the Earl of Moray after his older brother, Thomas Randolph, 2nd Earl of Moray, died. This happened at the Battle of Dupplin Moor in 1332.
His sister was Agnes Randolph, who was also known as "Black Agnes." She was famous for bravely defending Dunbar Castle.
Early Battles and Escapes
After becoming Earl, John Randolph immediately supported his cousin, King David II of Scotland. He led a surprise attack against Edward Balliol in December 1332. This battle, known as the Battle of Annan, ended in a victory for Randolph.
In 1333, he fought at the Battle of Halidon Hill. He commanded the first part of the Scottish army. After the battle, he managed to escape the fighting and went to France for safety.
Ruling Scotland as Regent
John Randolph returned to Scotland the next year. He and the High Steward of Scotland were chosen to be joint Regents. A Regent is someone who rules a country when the king is too young or unable to rule. Their job was to bring order back to the nation.
Captured and Released
Randolph successfully captured the Comyn Earl of Atholl. Atholl was leading the English forces in Scotland. Randolph set him free after Atholl promised to support the Scottish Crown. However, Atholl broke his promise and rejoined the English side.
In August 1335, Randolph led an attack near Edinburgh. This was against Flemish soldiers working for the English. He forced them to surrender. But while escorting their leader, Count Guy de Namur, Randolph was ambushed. He was captured by William de Pressen, an English warden.
John Randolph was held prisoner in several places. These included Nottingham Castle and the Tower of London. Later, he was moved to Windsor Castle. In 1341, he was set free in an exchange. He was traded for the Earl of Salisbury, who was a prisoner of the French. After this, Randolph returned to Scotland.
His Final Battle
In February 1346, John Randolph joined King David II in invading England. On 17 October 1346, they fought the Battle of Neville's Cross. This battle took place outside Durham. John Randolph commanded the right side of the Scottish army. He was killed during the first English attack.
John Randolph was married to Euphemia de Ross. They did not have any children. After his death, the title of Earl of Moray went back to the Crown. Later, it was given to his nephew, John Dunbar, Earl of Moray.
See also
In Spanish: John Randolph para niños
