Maitland, John Maitland, 1st Baron

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Maitland, John Maitland, 1st Baron [S] (c.1545–95). Maitland succeeded his father in 1567 as keeper of the privy seal [S]. He and his elder brother Sir William Maitland were strong supporters of Mary, queen of Scots. He was forfeited in 1571 and took refuge with his brother in Edinburgh castle. He was lucky to escape with his life when in 1573 the castle was forced to surrender. But when James VI came of age, Maitland found himself in favour. In 1584 he was knighted and made secretary of state for life, and from 1587 until his death he was lord chancellor [S]. On the occasion of the coronation of Anne of Denmark in 1590, he was made a peer as Maitland of Thirlestane. His influence was used to support the presbyterian party and he favoured good relations with England. Maitland's son was created earl of Lauderdale.

J. A. Cannon

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