Charles Vereker, 2nd Viscount Gort facts for kids
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Charles Vereker, who later became the 2nd Viscount Gort, was an important Irish soldier and politician. He was born in Ireland in 1768. He is remembered for his bravery in battle and for serving his country in politics.
Early Life and Military Service
Charles Vereker was the son of Thomas Vereker. His mother was Juliana Smyth. He had an uncle named John Prendergast-Smyth, who was the 1st Viscount Gort.
He briefly served in the navy when he was younger. Later, he became a high-ranking officer. He was a lieutenant-colonel in the Limerick militia, a local army group.
A Life in Politics and Battle
Charles Vereker began his political career in 1790. He represented Limerick City in the Irish Parliament. This was before Ireland joined with Great Britain.
In 1798, a French army landed in Ireland. Charles Vereker bravely stopped their advance at a place called Collooney. His actions helped lead to their defeat at Ballinamuck. He was even wounded during this time. For his bravery, Parliament thanked him. He was also allowed to add the word "Collooney" to his family's coat of arms.
After Ireland joined Great Britain in 1801, through something called the Act of Union, he continued to serve. He was elected to the British Parliament for Limerick. He held this seat until 1817. He also worked for the government as a Lord of the Treasury.
Charles Vereker was strongly against the Act of Union. He spoke out against it many times. He famously said he would not betray his country for any reward. In 1817, he became the 2nd Viscount Gort after his uncle passed away. In 1824, he was chosen to be an Irish Representative Peer. This meant he could represent Ireland's nobility in the British Parliament. He also held important local roles, like Constable of Limerick Castle.
Family and Legacy
Lord Gort was married twice. His first wife was Jane Westropp. They married in 1789. After Jane passed away in 1798, he married Elizabeth Palliser in 1810. He had children from both marriages.
Lord Gort passed away on November 11, 1842, when he was 74 years old. His son, John, from his first marriage, became the 3rd Viscount Gort. His second wife, Lady Gort, passed away in 1858.
His family's motto was "Vincit Veritas," which means "Truth Conquers." His descendants include important people today, such as Stella Creasy, a Member of Parliament, and John Vereker, a former Governor of Bermuda.
