Padraig, Earl of Atholl facts for kids
Padraig or Patrick of Atholl was a powerful leader known as a Mormaer in a part of Scotland called Atholl. He held this important position from about 1236 or 1237 until 1241.
Who Was Padraig?
A Mormaer was like a very important earl or a regional ruler in early Scotland. Padraig was in charge of the lands and people of Atholl. A old book called the Chronicle of Melrose tells us that many people thought highly of Padraig. It said he was "imbued with all courtly wisdom and wit," which means he was very smart, polite, and well-respected.
A Tragic Event
Sadly, Padraig's life ended in a very tragic way. While he was staying in a town called Haddington in East Lothian, some of his enemies attacked. These "most wicked men" set fire to the building where he was staying. Padraig and two friends who were with him were killed in the fire. This happened in 1241.
What Happened Next?
After Padraig's death, his aunt, Forbhlaith, became the new Mormaer of Atholl. She shared this role with her husband, David de Hastings.
Padraig's murder caused a big stir among the Scottish nobility, who were important lords and ladies. They were very upset. A powerful leader named Patrick II Earl of March, along with David de Hastings, led the charge to find those responsible. They went after a man named Walter Byset, Lord of Aboyne. Walter Byset tried to get help from King Alexander II. Even though the King tried to keep Walter safe in different places, Walter was eventually sent away from Scotland. He was banished to England and lost all his lands and wealth.
