Scottish expedition into Argyll (1221–1222)

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Between 1221 and 1222, King Alexander II of Scotland led a campaign into Argyll and the surrounding region. The goal was to counter the power of Clann Somhairle and their alliances with the Crovan dynasty of the Isle of Man and Ailean mac Lachlainn, Lord of Galloway and the King’s constable, along with older ties to the Meic Uilleim and MacHeths. Argyll was brought under the Scottish kingdom after Ruaidhrí mac Raghnaill was expelled and Donnchadh of Argyll submitted and swore fealty.

Alexander II began formalising Norman-style feudal law and Scottish administration in the area, and he ordered royal castles built at Dunoon (Cowal), Tarbet (Kintyre), and Dumbarton in Lennox. After his wedding to Joan of England on 21 June 1221 in York, Alexander II left for the Argyll expedition. The army, drawn from Lothian, Galloway, and other regions, sailed from Renfrew against the men of Argyll, but storms drove the fleet back and the campaign was postponed until the next year.

In June 1222 the expedition was renewed. Hostages were taken from lords who submitted and swore loyalty; those who refused overlordship or who fled were banished, and their lands were given to Alexander’s followers. Argyll, Cowal, Knapdale, and Kintyre came under Scottish control. A royal castle was built at Dunoon in Cowal and at Tarbet in Kintyre, and a new castle was built at Dumbarton in Lennox, which became a royal burgh in July 1222.