John of Strathbogie, 9th Earl of Atholl facts for kids

John of Strathbogie (born around 1266 – died 1306) was an important leader in Scotland. He served as a warden and a Justiciary, which was like a chief judge or administrator for the king.

John of Strathbogie: Early Life

John was born in Atholl, Perthshire, Scotland, around the year 1266. His father was David I Strathbogie, Earl of Atholl. His mother was Isabel de Chilham, also known as Isabel de Dover. She was the daughter of Richard de Chilham, a baron from Chilham, Kent. John first appeared in official records in 1282 as his father's son and heir. He was also a distant relative of King John of England.

John of Strathbogie's Military Role

In 1284, John joined other Scottish noblemen. They recognized Margaret, Maid of Norway, as the next in line to the throne after King Alexander III. In 1296, John fought for Scotland at the Battle of Dunbar. He was captured there and sent to the Tower of London.

After being held for a year, he was set free. The condition for his freedom was that he had to serve King Edward I of England in Flanders.

Return to Scotland and Robert the Bruce

In 1305, John officially recognized his land in Lesnes, Kent, as belonging to the English king. However, he soon returned to Scotland. In 1306, he joined Robert the Bruce in his fight against English rule. Because of this, John lost all his lands in England. He also took part in Robert the Bruce's coronation as King of Scots that same year.

Capture and Execution

Later in 1306, the English army invaded Scotland. John was captured during the Battle of Methven. On November 7, 1306, John, Earl of Atholl, was executed in London. His execution was made a public example, showing his high status compared to other prisoners. No other earl had been executed in England for 230 years before him.

Family Life

John married Marjory, who was also known as Margaret. She was the daughter of Domhnall I, Earl of Mar. They had two sons and one daughter:

• David de Strathbogie, 10th Earl of Atholl (died 1326)
• Sir John de Strathbogie, Knight
• Isabel, who was connected to Edward de Brus, Earl of Carrick