History Extra Podcast: Medieval Murder Mystery – Who Killed King James III?

Episode Release Date: March 5, 2025
Host: Spencer Mizzen
Guest: Historian Gordon McKelvie

Introduction

In this gripping episode of the History Extra podcast, host Spencer Mizzen delves into one of Scotland's most enduring royal murder mysteries: the assassination of King James III. Joined by esteemed historian Gordon McKelvie, the conversation explores the enigmatic circumstances surrounding James III's death in 1488, the political turmoil of his reign, and the lingering questions that have persisted for over five centuries.

Events Leading Up to James III's Death

Gordon McKelvie begins by outlining the key events that set the stage for the tragic demise of James III on June 11, 1488, at the Battle of Soheburn. He explains that the battle was primarily between King James III and his 15-year-old son, Prince James, who led the rebel forces.

Gordon McKelvie [01:09]:
"We know there was a battle led by King James III and his 15-year-old son, Prince James, who was effectively the leader of the rebel army."

The historian details James III's contentious rule, marked by strategic blunders and alienation of powerful nobles. His grandiose foreign policies, including plans to assist the French King Louis XI and a contentious marriage alliance with England’s King Edward IV, fostered widespread discontent. Additionally, James III's suspected involvement in the poisoning of his wife and the execution of his brother, the Duke of Albany, further tarnished his reputation and sowed seeds of rebellion.

Gordon McKelvie [02:30]:
"James III himself was a very divisive figure... he was quite a divisive figure... made a lot of strategic blunders."

Characterization of James III

McKelvie paints a picture of James III as a monarch whose autocratic tendencies and ruthless actions created numerous enemies. Ascending to the throne at the tender age of eight, James III faced challenges from the outset, with influential families like the Boyds exerting control until he began ruling independently in 1469. His reign was characterized by internal strife and attempts to centralize power, often at the expense of noble lords.

Gordon McKelvie [03:20]:
"He made a lot of strategic blunders... trying to alienate people, including his own family."

The Battle of Soheburn and James III's Death

The focal point of the episode is the mysterious circumstances of James III's death during the Battle of Soheburn. McKelvie explains that while the broad outlines of the battle are known, including the involvement of James III and his son, the precise details remain obscure.

Gordon McKelvie [13:05]:
"The battle itself, we don't really know that much about it."

James III attempted to emulate his ancestor Robert the Bruce by presenting himself with Bruce's symbolic sword, aiming to inspire his troops. Despite these efforts, the battle quickly turned against him. Advised to flee, James III was pursued and ultimately assassinated near Bannockburn, though the exact identity of his killer remains uncertain.

The Mystery of the Assassin: Main Contenders

A central theme of the discussion is the enduring mystery of who killed James III. McKelvie explores various theories, including the provocative possibility that James III's own son, James IV, was involved. While some Irish chronicles suggest that Prince James killed his father in retaliation for his mother's alleged poisoning, Scottish accounts remain ambiguous.

Gordon McKelvie [15:49]:
"We don't start getting proper names from any Scottish chroniclers from decades later."

The historian posits that James IV might have had motives rooted in familial vengeance or political pragmatism, though there is no concrete evidence to support this claim. Alternatively, McKelvie suggests that the chaos and betrayal inherent in James III's reign could imply that his assassination was a direct consequence of his own mismanagement and alienation of powerful factions.

Gordon McKelvie [26:07]:
"James is more responsible for his own death than anyone else was."

Aftermath and the Rise of James IV

Following his father's death, James IV ascended to the throne amidst a tumultuous political landscape. McKelvie discusses the challenges James IV faced in legitimizing his rule and addressing the grievances that led to his father's downfall. Public sentiment played a significant role, as the nobility and populace demanded accountability for the king's murder.

Gordon McKelvie [19:37]:
"Privately, he does seem to have quite a bit of guilt... publicly, he seems to wish they'll do talk about this."

James IV's reign is characterized by efforts to stabilize Scotland and distance himself from the divisive policies of his father. He undertook measures to consolidate power more effectively, although his rule was not without its own challenges and rebellions.

Reactions from Scotland's Neighbors

The episode also touches on the reactions of Scotland's neighbors, particularly England and other European powers, to the assassination of James III. McKelvie notes that, unlike his contemporaries engaged in the Wars of the Roses and other civil conflicts, Scotland's internal strife did not significantly alter its standing or provoke extensive diplomatic responses.

Gordon McKelvie [22:28]:
"Late 15th century is really the great age of rebellions and civil wars across Europe... Scottish kings had been killed by their subjects before the 15th century with little comment."

This relative indifference underscores the pervasive instability of the era, where royal assassinations were not uncommon and often failed to elicit strong international reactions.

Possibility of Solving the Mystery

In addressing whether the mystery of James III's killer will ever be solved, McKelvie remains skeptical without modern investigative tools like time machines.

Gordon McKelvie [26:07]:
"We are probably going to have to start inventing time machines."

He emphasizes that while direct evidence is lacking, the circumstances suggest that James III's own actions and policies created an environment ripe for his assassination, whether by his son or other disgruntled nobles.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with McKelvie reflecting on the broader implications of James III's assassination for Scottish history. He highlights the event as a catalyst for change, leading to the more effective and politically savvy reign of James IV. The unresolved mystery continues to intrigue historians and enthusiasts alike, embodying the complexities and intrigue of medieval Scottish politics.

Gordon McKelvie [27:59]:
"James is the one that went back on his world a few times... he was more responsible for his own death than anyone else was."

Final Thoughts

This episode of the History Extra podcast provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the assassination of King James III, blending historical analysis with the enduring allure of a royal mystery. Through Gordon McKelvie's expert insights, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the intricate power dynamics and personal vendettas that defined late 15th-century Scotland.

For more fascinating historical discussions, visit historyextra.com and explore a wealth of content spanning ancient to modern history.