Edward Brabazon, 2nd Earl of Meath facts for kids

Edward Brabazon, 2nd Earl of Meath (born around 1610 – died 25 March 1675) was an important Anglo-Irish nobleman and soldier. He was known for supporting the King during a very difficult time in English and Irish history.

Edward Brabazon's Early Life and Political Role

Edward Brabazon was born around 1610. His father was William Brabazon, 1st Earl of Meath, who was also a very important person. In 1626, Edward was made a knight, which was a special honor given by the King.

From 1634 to 1635, Edward became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Athlone. This meant he was chosen to represent his area in the Irish House of Commons, which was like a government meeting place where laws were discussed.

A Soldier for the King

Edward Brabazon was a strong supporter of Charles I of England, who was the King at the time. People who supported the King were called Royalists. Edward fought in two big conflicts: the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and the English Civil War. These were times of great fighting and disagreement in England and Ireland.

In 1642, Edward took part in a major battle called the Battle of Edgehill. He was in charge of a group of soldiers who rode horses. In 1644, he and his father were captured by the King's opponents, who were sometimes called the Roundheads. They were held prisoner for eleven months in the Tower of London, a famous prison in England.

On 16 December 1651, Edward became the Earl of Meath after his father passed away. An Earl is a very high rank of nobleman.

Life After the King's Return

After a period when England did not have a king, the King was brought back to power. This time was known as the Stuart Restoration. Edward Brabazon became a member of the Privy Council of Ireland. This was a group of important advisors to the King in Ireland.

Sadly, Edward Brabazon died in 1675. He drowned near Holyhead while traveling by boat from Ireland to England.

Family and Successors

Edward Brabazon married Mary Chambré in 1632. They had several children. Three of his sons later became Earls of Meath after him:

• William became the 3rd Earl in 1675.
• Edward became the 4th Earl in 1685.
• Chambré became the 5th Earl in 1707.