The Legend of "Bloody" Claverhouse

Hero or Villain?

Few figures in Scottish history inspire as much controversy as John Graham of Claverhouse, better known as Viscount Dundee. To his enemies, he was “Bloody Claverhouse,” a ruthless persecutor of the Covenanters, enforcing the harsh policies of Charles II and James VII (James II of England) with brutal efficiency. To his supporters, he was “Bonnie Dundee,” a gallant and loyal commander who gave his life for the Stuart cause at the Battle of Killiecrankie in 1689. Was he a bloodthirsty villain, a tragic hero, or something in between?