The 586-Man Murder Squad

How Lord Semple Got Away with Treason

In the lawless world of 16th-century Scotland, where noble families ruled their lands like independent warlords, William, Lord Semple, became infamous for one of the most brazen acts of violence in Renfrewshire’s history. In 1527, Semple led a private army of 586 armed men into the heart of Edinburgh and committed a public murder near the Tolbooth—the very seat of royal justice.

Despite this blatant act of treason and murder, not only did Lord Semple avoid execution, but he also secured a royal pardon that protected him for nearly two decades. How did he pull off such a feat? This is the astonishing story of power, influence, and corruption in a Scotland ruled by clans and kings.