Alexander Montgomery (1720–1800) facts for kids
Colonel Alexander John Montgomery (born 1720 – died 29 September 1800) was an Irish politician. He was known for being a strong, independent voice in the Irish Parliament.
He was born in 1720. His father, Thomas Montgomery, was also a politician who represented Lifford. Alexander's younger brother, Richard Montgomery, became a famous war hero in the American Revolution.
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Political Life and Nicknames
Alexander John Montgomery was elected to the Irish Parliament in 1768. He represented County Donegal until 1800. He also served as the High Sheriff of Donegal in 1773, which was an important local role.
He had two nicknames. People first called him "Black Montgomery" because of an event that happened during the Seven Years' War in Canada. Later in life, he was known as "Old Sandy" to tell him apart from his cousin, Alexander Montgomery (died 1785), who was also a politician.
Military Service
Montgomery was a captain in the British Army's 43rd Regiment of Foot. His regiment served in America and was part of General James Wolfe's attack on French Quebec in 1759. He left the British Army in 1763. He was also a Colonel in the Volunteers, a local defense force.
Strong Opinions and Challenges
Montgomery was known for being very independent. He won his last election in 1797 with strong support from local people. He joined the Royal Dublin Society in 1773, an organization that promoted science and art.
He was also known for taking part in duelling, which were formal challenges between gentlemen. Once, during a duel, his opponent's shot hit his coat. But Montgomery wasn't bothered! He finished the duel sitting in a chair. In 1797, he won another duel and was celebrated by his supporters, the United Irishmen.
The government sometimes saw Montgomery as a difficult person because he was so independent. In 1773, he was described as "extremely popular and very flighty" (meaning he was popular but unpredictable). He often supported the government but also stood up for what he believed in, even if it meant disagreeing with powerful people. He was strongly against the 1800 Act of Union, which joined the Kingdom of Ireland with the Kingdom of Great Britain. He voted against it.
Later Life and Legacy
Alexander John Montgomery never married. He passed away on 29 September 1800, at the age of 80. This was just before the Act of Union officially became law. On his tombstone in the churchyard of Raphoe Cathedral, it says: "Sacred to the memory of Alex Montgomery of Convoy who represented this once Independent county in Parliament for 32 years." This shows how much he was respected for his long service and his fight for Ireland's independence.
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