Robert Douglas, 8th Earl of Morton facts for kids
Robert Douglas, Earl of Morton (died November 12, 1649) was an important Scottish nobleman. He held the title of Earl of Morton. Robert was the son of William Douglas, 7th Earl of Morton and Lady Anne Keith. In 1627, he married Anne Villiers.
Who Was Robert Douglas?
Robert Douglas was a Scottish nobleman. This means he belonged to a high-ranking family with special titles and lands. He inherited the title of Earl of Morton after his father, William Douglas, the 7th Earl, passed away. His mother was Lady Anne Keith. Robert married Anne Villiers, who was the daughter of Sir Edward Villiers.
Robert's Role in Orkney
After his father died, Robert Douglas took charge in Orkney. Orkney is a group of islands north of Scotland. Robert was very determined to raise money for the king. He collected funds to support the "royalist cause." This meant he was helping the king during a time of conflict.
The Douglas family had special rights in Orkney. These rights were given by King Charles I. This was to make up for money and property the 7th Earl had lost while supporting the king.
Orkney became very important during the War of the Three Kingdoms. This was a big series of wars across Britain and Ireland. In 1649, a leader named James Graham, 1st Marquess of Montrose planned to land his forces in Orkney. He wanted to restart the fighting in Scotland from there. So, the Douglas family's control of Orkney was a key part of the war.
Robert Douglas died in Kirkwall, Orkney, on November 12, 1649.
His Family Life
Robert Douglas was succeeded by his son, William Douglas, 9th Earl of Morton. This means William became the next Earl of Morton after his father. Robert also had two daughters with his wife, Anne Villiers. His daughter Lady Anne Douglas married the Earl Marischal. His other daughter, Lady Mary Douglas, married Sir Donald Macdonald.
