William Borthwick, 2nd Lord Borthwick facts for kids

William Borthwick, 2nd Lord Borthwick (died between 1483 and 1484) was an important Scottish landowner and a special messenger, also known as an ambassador, to England.

He was the son of William Borthwick, 1st Lord Borthwick. William Borthwick followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a significant figure in Scottish history.

What Did Lord Borthwick Do?

Serving as an Ambassador

In 1459, William Borthwick was chosen to be an ambassador to England. This meant he traveled to England to represent the King of Scotland. He was given a special pass, called a safe-conduct, on July 13. This pass allowed him to travel safely to Newcastle with many other important nobles, church leaders, and a large group of 200 helpers.

Later, in 1464, he was again asked to help with important talks. On April 11, he and other senior nobles were given a task by James III of Scotland. Their job was to talk with the ambassadors from Edward IV of England. Their goal was to finish an important agreement called the Treaty of York.

His Role in Parliament

Lord Borthwick was also a member of the Scottish Parliament. He attended meetings on October 9, 1466, and October 14, 1467. He continued to be part of many parliaments until he passed away.

In 1479, he was one of the "Lords of the Articles." This was a special group of people in parliament who helped prepare laws. They met in Edinburgh on October 4, 1479.

More Diplomatic Missions

In August 1471, he received another safe-conduct. This allowed him, along with church leaders and other nobles, to travel to England. This time, he led a group of 400 people. They were going as "ambassadors and commissioners of the King of Scots" to talk with English representatives. He was named again as a Scottish ambassador in another safe-conduct on August 24, 1478.

His Family Life

William Borthwick was married to Margaret Hoppringle. They were married in 1458. They had a son and heir, also named William Borthwick, 3rd Lord Borthwick.

His son, William Borthwick, appeared in a legal case about a debt on July 4, 1476. The court made a decision against him. Both father and son were involved in another legal case on October 16, 1479. This time, the court decided in their favor.