Robert Balfour, 2nd Lord Balfour of Burleigh facts for kids

Robert Balfour, 2nd Lord Balfour of Burleigh (who passed away on August 18, 1663) was an important Scottish military leader.

He was born Robert Arnot, the son of Sir Robert Arnot of Fernie. His father was also the chamberlain of Fife, which meant he managed the finances and lands for the king in that area. Robert Arnot married Margaret Balfour, whose father, Michael Balfour, was the first person to be given the title of Lord Balfour of Burleigh. When Margaret's father died, she inherited the title, becoming Baroness Balfour of Burleigh. Because of this, King James I allowed Robert Arnot to take on the title as well, becoming the 2nd Lord Balfour of Burleigh.

Robert Balfour: A Scottish Leader

Robert Balfour played a big role in Scottish politics and military events during his time. He was known for his leadership and his involvement in major conflicts.

Political Roles and Influence

In 1640, when the Scottish parliament met, Robert Balfour was chosen to be their president. This was a very important position, showing how much trust and respect he had from other leaders. He continued in this role in 1641.

He was also one of the people chosen to work on a peace treaty with England between 1640 and 1641. This shows he was involved in important discussions about the future of Scotland and its relationship with its neighbor. In 1641, the Scottish parliament also made him a member of the privy council. This was a group of advisors to the king, and Robert Balfour was appointed for life, meaning he would serve unless he did something wrong.

Military Career and Challenges

During the time of the wars of Montrose, Robert Balfour was very active on the side of the Scottish government. He took on military command, leading troops in battle. However, he faced some tough challenges.

In September 1644, the famous military leader Montrose defeated Balfour's forces near Aberdeen. Then, in August 1645, Montrose defeated him again, along with General Baillie, at the Battle of Kilsyth.

Robert Balfour was against a plan known as the 'engagement.' This was a controversial idea to send Scottish troops into England to help rescue the king. He was influential enough to convince Oliver Cromwell, a powerful English leader, not to invade Scotland at that time. In 1649, an act was passed to prepare Scotland for defense. As part of this, Robert Balfour was named one of the colonels for Fife, meaning he was in charge of military forces in that region. In the same year, he was also appointed as one of the commissioners for the treasury and exchequer, which meant he helped manage the country's money and taxes.

Later Life and Family

Robert Balfour's wife, Margaret, passed away before him in 1639. They had one son, John, who became the 3rd Lord Balfour of Burleigh after his father. They also had four daughters. One of their daughters, Anna Balfour, married David Wemyss, 2nd Earl of Wemyss in 1627.

Robert Balfour died at Burleigh, a place near Kinross, in August 1663.