Maol Choluim II, Earl of Lennox facts for kids
Maol Choluim II of Lennox (also known as Malcolm II of Lennox) was an important Scottish leader who lived a long time ago. He was a mormaer, which was like being an earl or a powerful chief, in a place called Lennox. He led his people from 1303 until he died in 1333.
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Standing Up for Scotland
Maol Choluim's family was very loyal to Robert the Bruce, who was fighting to become King of Scotland. His father, Maol Choluim I, supported Bruce even before Maol Choluim II became the leader.
Because of this loyalty, the English king, Edward I of England, tried to take away the Lennox lands. He gave the title of Earl of Lennox to someone else, Sir John Menteith. But Maol Choluim II stayed with King Robert the Bruce, even when Bruce was hiding and traveling through the Lennox area.
Becoming a Leader
To become the official leader of Lennox, Maol Choluim had to show respect to King Edward I of England. He even had to attend Edward's royal court. His mother, Marjorie, also shared information with the English king, perhaps to help Maol Choluim become the Earl.
At first, Maol Choluim helped King Edward by gathering men from his lands. However, his true loyalty was always with Robert the Bruce, just like his father. This was clear when he attended Robert the Bruce's coronation, showing everyone whose side he was on.
A Loyal Supporter of Robert the Bruce
Maol Choluim II was one of Robert the Bruce's most trusted friends and followers. People who wrote about history, like John Barbour and John of Fordun, praised him a lot for his loyalty.
King Robert the Bruce trusted Maol Choluim so much that he even chose to retire in the Lennox area, at a place called Cardross. This shows how close their bond was.
The Declaration of Arbroath
In 1320, Maol Choluim was one of the important people who signed the Declaration of Arbroath. This was a famous letter sent to the Pope, explaining that Scotland was an independent country and that Robert the Bruce was its rightful king. It was a very brave and important step for Scotland's freedom.
Final Battle
Maol Choluim II continued to fight for Scotland and Robert the Bruce's cause. He died bravely on July 19, 1333, during the Battle of Halidon Hill. In this battle, the Scottish forces fought against an alliance of English and Scottish nobles who supported another claim to the throne.
His Family
Maol Choluim II had two known sons with his wife, whose name is not known today. His son Domhnall became the next Earl of Lennox after him, and his other son was named Muireadhach.
