Archibald Douglas was educated at the University of St Andrews and was tutored at Regent Morton's court by John Provan.
In 1580 Angus gave strong support to Morton during the attack upon the latter, made a vain attempt to rescue him, and was declared guilty of high treason on 2 June 1581.
He then entered into correspondence with the English government for an invasion of Scotland to rescue Morton, and on the latter's execution in June, went in exile to London, where he was welcomed by Queen Elizabeth.
Later they took up residence at Newcastle-upon-Tyne, which became a centre of Presbyterianism and of projects against the Scottish government, encouraged by Elizabeth, who regarded the banished lords as friends of the English and antagonists of the French interest.
In October they invaded Scotland and gained an easy victory over Arran, captured Stirling Castle with the King in November, and secured from him the restoration of their estates and the control of the government.
[2] In November 1586 Angus was appointed Warden of the Marches and Lieutenant-General on the Border, with a force of 100 horsemen and 100 foot soldiers, and their officers, drummers and pipers, and "furriers" or quartermasters.
During the North Berwick witch trials, Geillis Duncan accused Barbara Napier of causing his death by witchcraft.