BattlefieldsBattle of Inverlochy 1431
Medieval

Battle of Inverlochy 1431

1431
Inverness-shire, Scotland
Also known as: Inverlochy 1431 · Donald Balloch defeats Mar
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Inverness-shire, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Government forces (Earl of Mar)
Forces
Government c.1,000–2,000.
VS
Victor
MacDonalds of the Isles (Donald Balloch)
Forces
MacDonalds c.2,000–3,500
Outcome
Decisive MacDonald victory; government army routed at Lochaber
The Battle

History & Significance

James I sent an army to suppress the Lordship of the Isles and punish a MacDonald rising. At Inverlochy near Fort William, the government force under the Earl of Mar was utterly routed by Donald Balloch, nephew of the Lord of the Isles. Mar barely escaped with his life. The victory temporarily reasserted MacDonald power in Lochaber and embarrassed the crown. Donald Balloch fled to Ireland to avoid punishment but the Lords of the Isles continued to defy royal authority for another generation.

Casualties & Losses

Mar's army routed; heavy government losses

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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