Why was James III known as the Rash (or the Unfortunate)?
James III was born in Catania, Sicily, in 1315, son of Ferdinand of Mallorca and Isabella of Sabran. He died on a battlefield when he was 34 years old. This could give some clues about the nickname by which he is remembered in history. , but James had a difficult childhood, as he lost both his parents shortly after his birth. Finally, he ended up living in the biggest Balearic Island, where his father’s family lived. It was there where he earned the reputation he has today.
Once his uncle Sancho passed away, James became the king, when he was only nine years old. During the first years, he was not able to take the control of all the reign since he was really young. However, when he grew up, he showed everyone that he was the perfect king to rule the territory and secure his throne.
James III the Rash was always involved in battles which often he could not win. He soon sided with the Crown of Aragon in the war with Genoa, even though its maritime options were not the best. Besides, he sided with England in the Hundred Years’ War, which caused him to become enemies with France. The Kingdom of Aragon, previously a family friend, also turned against him, as well as the Kingdom of Castile. So, to sum up, James III did not have many allies.
For that reason, finally he lost Mallorca, which was under the rule of Peter the Ceremonious. When he tried to reconquer it, he was killed. James III is considered foolish and rash, someone too proud to concede or admit defeat. That is why he is known as James III the Rash.
