William Douglas, 8th Earl of Douglas

William Douglas, 8th Earl of Douglas, was the head of the powerful Black Douglas family during the reign of James II. His territorial influence and alliances made him one of the greatest magnates in Scotland.

In 1452 James II killed Douglas at Stirling Castle after the earl refused to abandon a noble alliance. The murder intensified the conflict between crown and family and led ultimately to the destruction of Black Douglas power.