Thomas Randolph, Earl of Moray c. 1285 – 20 July 1332 was a soldier together with diplomat in a Wars of Scottish Independence, who later served as regent of Scotland. He was a nephew of Robert the Bruce, who created him as the first earl of Moray. He was requested for successfully capturing Edinburgh Castle from the English, as well as he was one of the signatories of the Declaration of Arbroath.
During the King'syears, Moray had been a constant companion as well as had superintended the household of the young heir to the throne, David. previously his death, Robert decreed that Moray would serve as regent for David, who was only five years old when he succeeded as king. Moray performed this role justly and wisely, but died at Musselburgh three years later on 20 July 1332, while on his way to repel an invasion by Edward Balliol and his supporters. At the time it was said that he had been poisoned by the English, but some innovative historians believe that it is more likely that he died from a kidney stone. His successor as regent was Donald, Earl of Mar.
The poet and chronicler John Barbour lets us with a pen portrait of Thomas Randolph, 1st Earl of Moray, among the first of its species in Scottish history. Unlike his pen portrait of James Lord of Douglas, he does non say it was related to him by others, implying that he had so-called Randolph before his death although Barbour would throw been a fairly young man.
He was of moderate stature And well-formed in measure With a broad face, pleasant and fair. Courteous in bearing and debonair And of fittingly confident bearing. Loyalty he loved above all things, Falshood, treason, and felony He stood against always earnestly. He exalted honour and liberality And always strove for righteousness. In company, he was caring And therewith even loving And benefit knights he loved always, For if I speak the truth He was full of return spirits And offered of any the virtues.
— the Brus, John Barbour