Arthur Clifton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir Arthur Clifton
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Sir Arthur Clifton by William Salter
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| Born | 1771 |
| Died | 8 March 1869 |
| Allegiance | United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Rank | General |
| Unit | 1st Dragoons |
| Battles/wars | Napoleonic Wars |
| Awards | Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath Knight Commander of the Royal Guelphic Order |
General Sir Arthur Benjamin Clifton (1771–8 March 1869) was a brave British soldier. He fought in important wars like the Peninsular War. He also played a key role at the famous Battle of Waterloo in 1815.
Contents
Sir Arthur Clifton: A British Soldier
Sir Arthur Benjamin Clifton was born in 1771. He became a very important general in the British Army. His long life saw many big changes in the world. He was known for his courage and leadership in battle.
Early Life and Army Start
Arthur Clifton was the third son of Sir Gervase Clifton. His father was a well-known person in Nottinghamshire. Arthur went to Rugby School, which is a famous school. In 1794, when he was about 23 years old, he joined the army. This was the start of his long military career.
Fighting in the Peninsular War
Sir Arthur Clifton served in the Peninsular War. This war took place in Spain and Portugal. It was part of the bigger Napoleonic Wars. British forces fought against the French army. Clifton was a key officer during these battles. He received special awards for his service. These included a gold medal for his bravery. He earned this for his actions at the battles of Fuentes de Oñoro and Vittoria.
The Battle of Waterloo
One of Sir Arthur Clifton's most famous moments was at the Battle of Waterloo. This huge battle happened on 18 June 1815. It was a final fight against Napoleon Bonaparte's French army. During the battle, a senior officer, Major General Sir William Ponsonby, sadly died. Sir Arthur Clifton then took command of the 2nd Union Cavalry Brigade. His leadership was very important during this critical time. After the battle, he was promoted to the rank of general.
Later Life and Honors
Sir Arthur Clifton received many honors for his service. In 1838, he was made a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath. This is a very high award. Later, in 1861, he was given an even higher honor. He became a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath. Sir Arthur Clifton never married. He passed away on 8 March 1869. He was 98 years old and lived in Brighton.
