Margaret of Scotland (1193 – 25 November 1259) was a daughter of William the Lion, King of Scotland and his wife Ermengarde de Beaumont. She was a member of the House of Dunkeld and by marriage, she was Countess of Kent.
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Early life
Margaret was the first child of William I of Scotland and his wife Ermengarde de Beaumont. She was an older sister of Alexander II of Scotland.
Her father had fought Henry II of England, as well as his younger son, John of England. As a result, in 1209, William was forced to send Margaret and her younger sister Isabella as hostages; they were imprisoned at Corfe Castle along with Eleanor, Fair Maid of Brittany, who had been under house arrest to prevent her claim on England. In June 1213, John sent green robes, lambskin-trimmed cloaks, and summer slippers to the three royal ladies. The ladies were sometimes allowed to ride out under the strictest guard.
Part of this arrangement was reflected in the Magna Carta, which promised to deal with the rights of Alexander and his family.
Marriage
On 19 June 1221, Margaret married Hubert de Burgh. At the time of their marriage, Hubert was effectively the regent of the Kingdom of England since Henry III was too young to carry out the duties of king. Henry III finally came of age in 1227 and Hubert retired from his duties as regent. He was awarded the title of Earl of Kent and remained one of the most influential people at court.
