Alexander Fraser, 17th Lord Saltoun facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lord Saltoun
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Portrait by William Salter, c. 1837
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| Born | 22 April 1785 London, England |
| Died | 18 August 1853 Rothes, Scotland |
| Buried |
Fraserburgh, Scotland
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| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Rank | Lieutenant-General |
| Battles/wars | Napoleonic Wars, First Opium War |
Alexander George Fraser, 17th Lord Saltoun (born April 22, 1785 – died August 18, 1853) was a brave Scottish general. He served in the British Army and fought in two major conflicts. These were the Napoleonic Wars and the First Opium War. He was also a Scottish representative peer, meaning he represented Scotland in the British Parliament.
Contents
A Life in the Army
Lord Saltoun began his military career early. He served with a special group of soldiers called grenadiers. These soldiers were known for their strength and courage.
Early Battles
He fought in several important battles across Europe.
- In 1806, he was in Sicily.
- In 1808, he fought at Corunna in Spain.
- In 1809, he was part of the Walcheren Campaign.
- From 1812 to 1814, he served in Spain and France during the Peninsular War.
The Battle of Waterloo
One of his most famous moments was at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. He was a captain in the First Regiment of Guards. This unit later became known as the Grenadier Guards.
During the battle, Lord Saltoun fought bravely in a place called the Orchard at Hougomont. It was a very intense fight. He had four horses shot out from under him, but he kept fighting. His bravery was noticed by others.
Awards and Recognition
After the Battle of Waterloo, Lord Saltoun received special honors. He was made a Knight of St. George of Russia. He also became a knight of the Austrian Military Order of Maria Theresa.
The famous Duke of Wellington, a top British general, praised Lord Saltoun. Wellington said he was a "pattern to the army both as man and soldier." This meant he was a great example for all soldiers.
In 1821, he received the Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Guelphic Order. In 1852, he became a Knight of the Thistle. This is one of Scotland's highest honors.
Later Military Career
Lord Saltoun continued to rise in rank. In 1837, he was promoted to major-general. He then commanded soldiers during the First Opium War.
In 1842, he led the first brigade in the Battle of Chinkiang in China. After this battle, he commanded the entire force until 1843. In 1849, he was promoted again to lieutenant-general. This was a very high rank in the army.
His Family Life
Alexander George Fraser was the son of Alexander Fraser, 16th Lord Saltoun. His mother was Margaret Fraser. He married the daughter of Lord Chancellor Thurlow. Lord Saltoun passed away in Rothes, Scotland, on August 18, 1853.
Images for kids
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Portrait of Lord Saltoun by William Salter, c. 1837
