Deaths on May 3

James Sharp, Scottish archbishop (b. 1613)

James Sharp, sometimes spelled Sharpe, was a prominent and ultimately tragic figure in 17th-century Scottish history, born on May 4, 1618. His life and career as a minister in the Church of Scotland, commonly known as the kirk, were deeply intertwined with the intense religious and political upheavals of his era, a period marked by profound divisions over the very nature of church governance.

Rise to Archbishop

Sharp rose through the ranks of the kirk, eventually accepting the pivotal role of Archbishop of St Andrews in 1661, a position he held until his death on May 3, 1679. This appointment occurred during the tumultuous years following the Restoration of the monarchy under King Charles II, a time when the king sought to re-establish royal authority not only in the state but also within the church. Sharp's ascension to this powerful ecclesiastical office placed him at the heart of a bitter ideological conflict that had simmered for decades within Scotland.

The Core Conflict: Episcopalianism vs. Presbyterianism

The central issue dividing the Scottish kirk, and indeed the nation, was the structure of church leadership. James Sharp became a staunch proponent of Episcopalianism, a system where the church is governed by bishops, often appointed by or closely aligned with the monarch. This model was favored by the Crown as it provided a hierarchical structure that could be more easily controlled and integrated with state power. Conversely, a significant and vocal segment of the kirk advocated for Presbyterianism. This system championed governance by presbyters or elders, who were typically elected by congregations, thereby emphasizing a more decentralized and congregational form of church authority, often viewed as independent of royal interference. Sharp's active support for Episcopacy put him in direct opposition to these Presbyterian elements, many of whom had been fierce Covenanters dedicated to defending the independence of the Scottish church.

Growing Opposition and Assassination

As Archbishop, Sharp was instrumental in implementing the King's Episcopalian policies, which included persecuting dissenting Presbyterian ministers and their congregations. This led to widespread resentment and open rebellion, particularly in the west of Scotland. His role in these repressive measures made him a deeply polarizing and reviled figure among many Presbyterians. The animosity culminated in two separate attempts on his life. The first attempt, though failing to kill him, underscored the extreme dangers he faced. Tragically, the second and fatal assassination occurred on May 3, 1679, when he was ambushed by a group of Covenanters on Magus Muir, near St Andrews. This brutal act brought an end to his contentious career and further inflamed the already volatile religious tensions in Scotland, becoming a pivotal event in the period known as "The Killing Time."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was James Sharp?

James Sharp, sometimes spelled Sharpe, was a significant Scottish minister who served as the Archbishop of St Andrews from 1661 until his assassination in 1679. He was a central figure in the religious and political conflicts of 17th-century Scotland, particularly regarding church governance.

What was the main conflict he was involved in?

Sharp was a key proponent of Episcopalianism, a system of church governance by bishops, which brought him into direct and often severe conflict with Presbyterian elements within the Church of Scotland, who advocated for a church led by elected elders.

What role did he play as Archbishop of St Andrews?

As Archbishop, Sharp was instrumental in implementing King Charles II's policies to re-establish Episcopacy in Scotland following the Restoration, often leading to the persecution of Presbyterian dissenters.

How did James Sharp die?

He was assassinated on May 3, 1679, by a group of Covenanters on Magus Muir, near St Andrews, after having survived a previous attempt on his life. This event became a notorious incident in Scottish history.

What is the difference between Episcopalianism and Presbyterianism?

Episcopalianism is a form of church governance where bishops hold authority, often appointed by the monarch. Presbyterianism, conversely, is governed by elected presbyters or elders, emphasizing congregational and local church autonomy, typically independent of state control.