Douglas Hamilton, 8th Duke of Hamilton facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Duke of Hamilton
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| Personal details | |
| Born | 24 July 1756 Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Died | 2 August 1799 (aged 43) Hamilton Palace, South Lanarkshire, Scotland |
| Nationality | Scottish |
| Spouse | Elizabeth Anne Burrell |
| Parents | James Hamilton, 6th Duke of Hamilton Elizabeth Gunning |
Douglas Hamilton, 8th Duke of Hamilton (born 24 July 1756 – died 2 August 1799) was an important Scottish nobleman and politician. He held several high titles, including the 8th Duke of Hamilton and the 5th Duke of Brandon. He was also known as the 2nd Baron Hamilton of Hameldon.
Contents
Life of Douglas Hamilton
Early Years and Education
Douglas Hamilton was born at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, Scotland. His father was James Hamilton, 6th Duke of Hamilton. His mother was Elizabeth Gunning.
He went to Eton, a famous school, from 1763 to 1767. When his older brother passed away in 1769, Douglas became the new Duke of Hamilton. Later, in 1790, he also inherited his mother's title, Baron Hamilton of Hameldon, after she died.
Travels and Marriage
Between 1772 and 1776, Douglas traveled across Europe. He was with Dr. John Moore and his son, who later became the famous military leader Lieutenant-Colonel Sir John Moore. This trip was part of his education.
When he was 21, Douglas married Elizabeth Anne Burrell. They got married in London on April 5, 1778. Elizabeth was the fourth daughter of Peter Burrell. Her sisters also married into important families.
Challenges in Marriage
Douglas's mother did not approve of his marriage. She had hoped he would marry someone from an even more powerful family.
Over time, the Duke and Duchess faced difficulties in their marriage. They eventually divorced in 1794. This divorce was agreed upon beforehand. The Duchess had left her husband a year earlier.
Later Life and Legacy
Douglas Hamilton never remarried after his divorce. He had a daughter named Anne (1796–1844) with Harriet Pye Esten. Anne later married Henry Westenra, 3rd Baron Rossmore.
The Duchess Elizabeth remarried a year after Douglas's death. She married the 1st Marquess of Exeter. She did not have any children from this second marriage.
Douglas Hamilton passed away in 1799 at the age of 43. He died at Hamilton Palace and was buried in the family tomb in Hamilton, Scotland. Since he had no legitimate children, his main title, Duke of Hamilton, went to his uncle, Archibald. His other title, Baron Hamilton of Hameldon, went to his half-brother, George.
Douglas Hamilton left the valuable items from Hamilton Palace to his daughter, Anne. However, the new Duke had to buy these items back.
The Duke is also remembered for supporting Sir John Moore early in his career. The Hamilton family helped Moore with his political and military path starting in 1779.
Douglas Hamilton was the first Duke of Hamilton to have a seat in the British Parliament as the Duke of Brandon. This title allowed him to be part of the House of Lords.
Images for kids
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Portrait of Douglas Douglas-Hamilton, 8th Duke of Hamilton, in the company of Dr. John Moore and his son John Moore on Grand Tour by Gavin Hamilton, 1775-1777, Scottish National Portrait Gallery
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Hamilton Palace
| Peerage of Scotland | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by James Hamilton |
Duke of Hamilton 1769–1799 |
Succeeded by Archibald Hamilton |
| Peerage of Great Britain | ||
| Preceded by James Hamilton |
Duke of Brandon 1769–1799 |
Succeeded by Archibald Hamilton |
| Preceded by Elizabeth Campbell |
Baron Hamilton of Hameldon 1790–1799 |
Succeeded by George Campbell |
| Honorary titles | ||
| New office | Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire 1794–1799 |
Succeeded by The Duke of Hamilton |
