Earl of Moray Murdered at Donibristle

On February 7, 1592. James Stewart, the 2nd Earl of Moray, was indeed murdered at Donibristle near Dalgety Bay in Fife, Scotland.

James Stewart, Earl of Moray, was a significant figure in Scottish politics during the late 16th century. He was the illegitimate son of King James V of Scotland and was known for his involvement in various political intrigues and power struggles.

The circumstances surrounding the murder of the Earl of Moray were deeply political. Moray was involved in a feud with the Ruthven family, who held considerable influence at the Scottish court. The Ruthvens accused Moray of complicity in the kidnapping of James VI of Scotland (who would later become James I of England) by the Earl of Bothwell. In retaliation, a group of Ruthven supporters, including the Earl of Huntly, ambushed Moray at Donibristle Castle on the night of February 7, 1592.

During the attack, Moray attempted to escape by leaping from a window, but he was mortally wounded and died shortly afterward. The murder of the Earl of Moray led to further unrest and political instability in Scotland, as various factions vied for power and influence.

The murder of James Stewart, Earl of Moray, remains one of the notable incidents in Scottish history during the late 16th century, reflecting the turbulent political climate of the time and the personal rivalries and ambitions that often drove events.