In 1440, the 16-year-old William Douglas, 6th Earl of Douglas, and his younger brother were invited to dine with the ten-year-old King James II of Scotland.[4] Later called the Black Dinner, the occasion was organised by the Lord Chancellor, Sir William Crichton, and James Douglas, 7th Earl of Douglas who inherited the young earl's wealth and titles.[15] While they ate, a black bull's head, a symbol of death, was brought in and placed before the Earl.[4] Over the protests of the young King James II, the two brothers were then dragged out to Castle Hill, given a mock trial and beheaded.[4] The Clan Douglas then laid siege to Edinburgh Castle.[16] Perceiving the danger, Crichton surrendered the castle to the king and was rewarded with the title Lord Crichton.[16] It is still unclear exactly who else was ultimately responsible, though it is thought Livingston and Buchan were likely candidates.[5][6][10] However, it was James Douglas and his son who profited.
Also 1440 minutes in a day.