Carstares, William

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Dates 1688-1702
Location London
Vocation Minister; politician
Place of Birth Cathcart
Marriage Elizabeth Kekewich
Issue
Place of birth Source Oxford Dictionary of National Biography

Studied at Leiden (c.1699). A staunch presbyterian, he remained exiled in the Dutch Republic, eventually becoming chaplain and close adviser to William of Orange. Involved in plots against Charles II, and captured during a trip to England (1683). Imprisoned in England and Scotland, but released and returned to Dutch Republic (1685). Accompanied William's invasion of England (1688), and remained one of his most influential advisers, especially on Scottish affairs, throughout his reign. Returned to Scotland following William's death (1702). Principal of Edinburgh University (1702). Minister of Greyfriars (1704) and St Giles (1708). Moderator of the General Assembly (1705).