Thomas Craig (jurist) facts for kids
Sir Thomas Craig of Riccarton (born around 1538, died 26 February 1608) was an important Scottish lawyer and poet. He is well-known for his work on Scottish law.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Thomas Craig's father was Robert Craig, a merchant in Edinburgh. His uncle, John Craig, was a famous Scottish reformer. Thomas lived in Edinburgh, near the Royal Mile. He also had a country home called Riccarton House.
He went to the Royal High School in Edinburgh. After that, he studied at the University of St Andrews. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree there in 1555. Then, he traveled to France to study law. He spent time in Paris from 1555 to 1561. There, he learned about civil law from a teacher named François Baudouin.
Career as a Lawyer
Thomas Craig returned to Scotland around 1561. He became a lawyer in February 1563. In 1564, he was made a justice-depute. This meant he helped oversee many criminal trials in Edinburgh. He also worked as a lawyer for the church in 1606.
He chose not to become a "lord of session," which was a high judicial position. King James VI offered him knighthood in 1604. Thomas Craig was in London at the time. He was one of the Scottish representatives working to unite the kingdoms of Scotland and England. Even though he reportedly refused the title, the King still wanted him to be known as a knight.
Thomas Craig passed away in Edinburgh on 26 February 1608.
Important Writings
Thomas Craig wrote several important books. Most of his works were published after he died.
Jus Feudale
His most famous book was Jus feudale (published in 1603). This book was about feudal law. Feudal law was a system of land ownership and duties. It was the first complete law book written in Scotland. The book helped make Scottish law its own separate system. It was translated into English in 1934 and again starting in 2017.
Other Works
He also wrote other books, including:
- De unione regnorum Britanniae tractatus: This book was about uniting the kingdoms of Britain.
- De jure successionis regni Angliae: This work discussed the right to become king or queen of England.
- De hominio disputatio: This book was about Scotland's independence.
Thomas Craig also wrote poems. His first poem was for the wedding of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1565.
Family Life
Thomas Craig had many family connections. He was married twice. His first wife was Helen Hamilton, whom he married in 1573. She passed away in 1575.
His second wife was Helen Heriot. They married in 1578. They had four sons and three daughters together.
His Children
- Lewis Craig (1569–1622): He became a judge in 1604.
- James Craig (born 1573): He was killed in Ireland in 1641 while defending a castle.
- John Craig (died 1655): He became a doctor for the royal family.
- Margaret Craig: She married Alexander Gibson, who was also a judge.
- Elizabeth Craig: She married James Johnston. Their son, Archibald Johnston, became a famous lawyer.
- Janet Craig: She married John Belches.
