Margaret Drummond, Queen of Scotland facts for kids

Margaret Drummond (born around 1340 – died after January 31, 1375) was an important Scottish noblewoman. She became the second wife of David II of Scotland, who was the King of Scots. Before marrying the king, she was known as Margaret Logie, after her first husband. Margaret was the daughter of Sir Malcolm Drummond and Margaret Graham, who was the Countess of Menteith.

Margaret's Early Life and First Marriage

Margaret Drummond was born into the powerful Drummond family in Scotland. Her father was Sir Malcolm Drummond. She first married a knight named Sir John Logie. Together, they had a son named John of Logie.

King David II showed special favor to Margaret's first husband, John Logie. This was partly because the king wanted to balance the power of other strong families in Scotland, like the Stewarts. King David also helped Margaret's family, the Drummonds, gain more land and important positions. For example, her brother, Malcolm Drummond, became a local official in Perth. Her uncle, John Drummond, was even made an Earl.

Becoming Queen of Scotland

King David II's first wife, Queen Joan of The Tower, passed away in 1362. After this, King David and Margaret Drummond grew closer. They married on February 20, 1364, at a place called Inchmurdach in Fife. This made Margaret the new Queen of Scotland.

Margaret's family became even more connected to the royal family. Her niece, Annabella Drummond, later married John Stewart. He would eventually become King Robert III of Scotland.

Later Life and Divorce

Queen Margaret and King David II did not have any children together. After about five years of marriage, King David decided to divorce Margaret. The divorce was announced on March 20, 1369. The reason given was that Margaret could not have children.

However, Margaret did not accept this decision. She traveled all the way to Avignon, a city in southern France, to speak with the Pope. The Pope at that time was Pope Urban V. Margaret successfully asked the Pope to overturn the divorce. This meant that in the eyes of the Church, she was still King David's wife.

Since Margaret had a child from her first marriage, it is possible that King David himself was unable to have children. He also did not have any children with his first wife during their long marriage.

Margaret lived longer than King David, who passed away in 1371. She was still alive on January 31, 1375. She likely died soon after that date. Her funeral costs were even paid for by the Pope, Pope Gregory XI.