Charles O'Gara facts for kids

Charles O'Gara (born 1699, died 1777) was an important person who worked for royal families in Europe. He was born in France but came from an Irish family. Charles became very successful serving powerful rulers like Leopold, Duke of Lorraine and his son Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor. Like his family, he supported the Stuart family, who wanted to rule Britain and Ireland again. This support was known as Jacobitism.

A Family's Journey: From Ireland to France

Charles O'Gara's father was Colonel Oliver O'Gara. He was an Irish soldier and a Member of Parliament. Colonel O'Gara was part of a group called the "Wild Geese." These were Irish soldiers who left Ireland after a big war.

The Williamite War and Its Aftermath

The war was called the Williamite War. It ended with the Treaty of Limerick. This treaty meant that the Stuart family lost control of Ireland. Many Irish soldiers, including Colonel O'Gara, then moved to France. They settled at the Saint-Germain palace. This was where the exiled King James II of England lived.

Charles O'Gara was the fourth of five children. He was born to Colonel O'Gara and his wife, Mary Fleming. Charles was baptized on July 16, 1699, at Saint-Germain. King James II himself was his godfather. Charles had three older brothers. One of them was John Patrick O'Gara. All his older brothers joined the Spanish Army.

Charles O'Gara's Royal Career

Charles O'Gara started his career working for the Duke of Lorraine. He was appointed an equerry to the Duke's two sons. An equerry is like a personal assistant or attendant to a royal family member.

Serving the Holy Roman Emperor

One of the Duke's sons was Francis. When Francis became the Holy Roman Emperor in 1745, Charles O'Gara's career grew even more. He was given important jobs at the royal court in Vienna. Charles became an Imperial Councillor. This meant he advised the Emperor. He was also made a Chamberlain. A chamberlain manages the Emperor's household.

Charles O'Gara was greatly rewarded for his loyal service. He was made a Count of the Holy Roman Empire. This was a very high noble title. He also became a Knight of the Golden Fleece. This is one of the most respected awards in Europe.

Wealth and Later Life

Charles O'Gara became very rich during his time serving the Emperor. He eventually retired to Brussels. He died there in 1777. Charles never married and did not have any children.

In his will, he left his money to his family. His main heirs were the three grandchildren of his older half-sisters. These included Randell Plunkett, 12th Baron Dunsany and his two sisters, Rose and Bridget Plunkett. He also left money to his second cousin, Charles O'Conor.