Morton, James Douglas, 4th earl of (1516-1581)

Scottish noble and regent for James VI (1572-78). He headed the Protestant anti-French party under Mary Queen of Scots and was her Lord Chancellor (1563-66) but was instrumental in the murder of her favourite, Riccio in 1566. He may also have been involved in the murder of her husband, Lord Darnley, the following year. He joined the rebellion against Mary (1567-68) and defeated royalist forces at the battles of Carberry Hill and Langside. From 1572-78 he was a successful regent for the young James VI, but his moderate episcopalianism alienated many and he was subsequently executed by the king for his alleged part in the murder of Darnley, the king's father.