William Douglas of Cluny facts for kids

William Douglas of Cluny (born around 1428, died before 1475) was an important Scottish leader. He served as a special guardian for King James III when the king was young. In 1464, he also became the Warden of the Eastern and Middle Marches, which meant he was in charge of keeping peace along Scotland's borders.

Early Life and Family

William Douglas was the son of William, the 2nd Earl of Angus, and Margaret Hay. His family, the House of Douglas, was one of the most powerful and important families in Scotland.

Serving the King

William Douglas played a key role in Scottish politics.

Guardian to King James III

When King James III was still a child, William Douglas was chosen to be one of his guardians. This was a very important job, as guardians helped rule the country until the king was old enough to do it himself. Before 1462, William Douglas received land and wealth from the king. This came from the property of the Earl of Douglas, who had lost his lands because of his actions against the king.

Warden of the Marches

In 1464, King James III gave William Douglas another big responsibility. He was made the Warden of the Eastern and Middle Marches. The Marches were the border areas between Scotland and England. A Warden's job was to keep law and order, protect the border, and manage relations with England. William took over this role from his brother, George, the 4th Earl of Angus. At the same time, he was put in charge of two important castles: Douglas Castle and Tantallon Castle, along with the lands around them.

Giving Up Responsibilities

By 1470, William Douglas's nephew, Archibald, the 5th Earl of Angus (also known as "Bell-the-Cat"), became an adult. At this point, William Douglas formally gave back control of Tantallon Castle and the lands of Douglas to the new Earl. This was a traditional way of showing that the responsibilities were being passed on.

Lands and Legacy

The lands William Douglas received from the king, including Sunderlandhall, Cranston, Traquair, and Leithenhope, were officially made into a special area called the Barony of Sunderland in 1464. This meant he had special rights and duties over these lands.

William Douglas of Cluny, sometimes called the Lord of Sunderland or Lord of Traquair, likely never married. He passed away before 1475. After his death, his lands in Cluny went to his nephew, the 5th Earl of Angus.