The eldest son of the 9th Earl of Argyll, Campbell sought to recover his father's estates (by moving into King James II of England's favor). However, after failing to do so, he supported William and Mary's quest for the throne; this important support led to the monarchs returning his father's estate. Also, he was made a Privy Councilor. He was William's chief Scottish advisor, and was made a duke in 1701. He commanded a regiment that was involved in the 1692 massacre of the MacDonalds of Glencoe; however, it is unlikely that he was personally involved.