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Charles O'Hara, 1st Baron Tyrawley facts for kids

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The Lord Tyrawley
Born c.1650
Kingdom of Ireland
Died 9 June 1724
Allegiance  Kingdom of England (pre-1707)
 Kingdom of Great Britain
Service/branch British Army
Rank Lieutenant General
Commands held Ireland
Battles/wars War of the Spanish Succession

Lieutenant General Charles O'Hara, 1st Baron Tyrawley was an important Irish soldier. He was born around 1650 and passed away on June 9, 1724. He is remembered for his long service with the British Army. From 1714 to 1721, he held a very important job. He was the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Irish Army. This meant he was in charge of all the soldiers in Ireland.

Who Was Charles O'Hara?

Charles O'Hara was born in Ireland in the mid-1600s. We don't know many details about his early life. He became connected to a very powerful family in Ireland, the Butler family. They lived in County Tipperary. This family often helped the King or Queen govern Ireland.

Early Life and Connections

It is believed that Charles O'Hara worked closely with a young man named James Butler. James later became the Duke of Ormonde. Charles O'Hara was likely his riding instructor. He even claimed to have been his teacher. This connection to the Butler family was very helpful for his future.

Starting a Military Career

Charles O'Hara began his military career as an officer. He joined the Duke of York's Foot regiment. By 1678, he had become a Captain. This was an important step in his career.

In 1679, he moved to a different group of soldiers called the Anglo-Dutch Brigade. Later, in 1686, he joined the famous 1st Foot Guards. He quickly moved up in rank. By 1689, he was a Lieutenant Colonel in that regiment.

Fighting in the War of the Spanish Succession

Charles O'Hara played a big part in the War of the Spanish Succession. This was a major conflict that lasted many years. In 1703, he traveled to Cadiz, a city in Spain.

Key Battles and Achievements

He showed great bravery at the Battle of Vigo Bay. This battle was an important naval victory. In 1706, he became the Second-in-Command in Spain. He successfully stopped a French attack on Guadalajara. This was a very important achievement. Because of his success, he was given an Irish Barony. This meant he became a Baron, a noble title.

In 1707, he commanded the left side of the army. This was during the Battle of Almansa. This battle was another key event in the war.

Leading the Army in Ireland

After the war, a new royal family came to power in Britain. This was called the Hanoverian Succession in 1714. Charles O'Hara was given a very important role. He was made Commander-in-Chief, Ireland. He held this high position until 1721. This made him the top military leader in Ireland.

His Family Life

Charles O'Hara was married to Frances Rouse. They had at least two children. Their son was named James O'Hara. He followed in his father's footsteps. James also became a very successful soldier. He even reached the rank of field marshal. Charles and Frances also had a daughter.

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