The Scottish knight known as the Black Douglas and a leading companion of Robert the Bruce was James Douglas.
James Douglas joined Bruce during the Wars of Scottish Independence and became one of his most effective commanders. He used surprise attacks, raids, and the recapture of castles to challenge English control in Scotland.
The nickname “Black Douglas” became prominent in English accounts and later Scottish tradition, reflecting his feared military reputation. His campaigns included the capture of Roxburgh Castle in 1314, shortly before the Scottish victory at Bannockburn.
Douglas later joined Bruce’s planned campaign in Iberia after the king’s death. He was killed at the Battle of Teba in 1330 while carrying Bruce’s heart toward the Holy Land, according to the traditional account. He is distinct from William Douglas, another important member of the Douglas family.