Colquhoun Grant (British cavalry general) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Colquhoun Grant
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|---|---|
| Nickname(s) | The Black Giant |
| Born | 1772 |
| Died | 1835 |
| Allegiance |  United Kingdom |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Years of service | 1793 to 1835 |
| Rank | Lieutenant-general |
| Battles/wars | Fourth Anglo-Mysore War |
Sir John Colquhoun Grant (1772–1835) was a very important British soldier. He rose through the ranks to become a Lieutenant-general. He was known for his great strength and was even called "The Black Giant." Grant fought in many major wars, including battles in India and against the French in Europe.
Contents
A Soldier's Life: Sir John Colquhoun Grant
Starting His Military Journey
John Colquhoun Grant began his army career in 1793. He joined a group of soldiers called the 36th Foot. After some years, he moved to the cavalry, which are soldiers who fight on horseback. He served with the 25th Light Dragoons in India. There, he took part in the Siege of Seringapatam in 1799. This was a big battle during the Fourth Anglo-Mysore War.
In 1802, he returned to the infantry, which are foot soldiers. He took command of the 72nd Foot regiment. In 1806, he led his regiment to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa. They fought against the Dutch army there. During the Battle of Blaauwberg, he was hurt. Even though he was wounded, he kept leading his soldiers bravely. His commander, Sir David Baird, praised him for his courage.
Fighting in Europe
In 1808, Grant joined the 15th Hussars, another cavalry regiment. He went to Spain to fight the French in the Peninsular War. He was wounded again during the Battle of Sahagún.
He returned to Spain in 1813. This time, he was in charge of a group of cavalry. His group fought in battles like the Battle of Morales. He continued to lead cavalry units for most of the war.
The Battle of Waterloo
One of his most famous moments was at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. This was a huge battle where the British and their allies fought against Napoleon's French army. Grant commanded the 5th Cavalry Brigade. This brigade included the 7th and 15th Hussars, along with the 13th Light Dragoons.
During the intense fighting at Waterloo, Grant showed incredible bravery. Five horses were shot from under him, but he kept fighting. After the war, he was honored for his service. He was made a Knight Commander of the Bath (KCB) in 1814. He was promoted to lieutenant-general in 1830.
The Black Giant
Sir John Colquhoun Grant was known as "The Black Giant." This nickname came from his impressive strength. He was said to be the strongest man in the entire British Army. Besides his military career, he also served as a Member of Parliament for a short time from 1831 to 1832. He was also a close assistant to Prince Ernest Augustus, who later became the King of Hanover.
He continued to be involved with the army even later in life. He became the colonel of the 12th Royal Lancers in 1825. Then, in 1827, he moved to be the colonel of the 15th Hussars, a position he held until he passed away.
Family Life
Sir John Colquhoun Grant died in 1835. He was married to Marcia Richards. They had one daughter, also named Marcia. Their daughter married a politician named Richard Brinsley Sheridan in 1835.
