Maurice de Moravia, Earl of Strathearn facts for kids
Maurice de Moravia, Earl of Strathearn (1276–1346), also known as Maurice Moray or Murray, was an important Scottish nobleman.
Maurice was the son of Sir John de Moray of Drumsargard. His mother, Mary, was the daughter of Malise, 7th Earl of Strathearn. He first became known around 1335 as a leader of the Scottish people who wanted to be free from English rule. By this time, he was a strong military leader. A writer named Walter Bower even called him "Lord of Clydesdale."
In 1335, Maurice met with other Scottish nobles. They refused a peace offer from Edward III of England. They wanted to keep fighting for Scotland's freedom. Because of this, Edward Balliol, who was supported by England, took away Maurice's lands. He gave them to an English knight named Anthony de Lucy.
Important Battles and Leadership
According to Walter Bower, Maurice was part of the siege of Perth in 1339. During this event, he was still known as the Lord of Clydesdale.
In the same year, Maurice killed a knight named Godfrey Ross. Godfrey Ross had killed Maurice's brother. In 1341, Maurice was at a special meeting (parliament) in Scone. This was the first meeting after King David returned from France.
In 1342, the English gave up Stirling Castle to the Scots. Maurice was put in charge of the castle. He made the castle much stronger and filled it with supplies. He spent a very large amount of money, £150, on equipment. A writer named Andrew of Wyntoun said Maurice "inforyst it grettumly, for riche he was and full mychty," meaning he greatly strengthened it because he was rich and powerful.
Becoming an Earl
Maurice received many lands for his service to Scotland. He was clearly a favorite of King David II. In 1344, King David gave Maurice the earldom of Strathearn. This earldom had been taken from Maurice's uncle, Earl Malise.
Earl Maurice was killed at the Battle of Neville's Cross on 17 October 1346.
Family Life
Earl Maurice married Joan de Menteith. Joan was the daughter of Sir John Menteith of Ruskie. Before marrying Maurice, Joan had been married twice. First, to Maurice's grandfather, Malise, the 7th Earl of Strathearn. Second, to John Campbell, Earl of Atholl.
Maurice and Joan had one daughter, also named Joan. This daughter Joan first married Thomas de Moray. Later, she married Archibald, 3rd Earl of Douglas, who was also known as "Black Archibald the Grim." After Maurice died, his wife Joan married William, 5th Earl of Sutherland.
See also
In Spanish: Maurice de Moravia para niños
