Edward Gerald Butler facts for kids
Sir Edward Gerald Butler was an important Irish soldier who lived from 1770 to 1824. He was known for his bravery and leadership in many battles, especially during the French Revolutionary Wars.
Edward Butler's Early Life
Edward Butler was born in County Tipperary, Ireland, in 1770. His father was Garret Butler.
He joined the army when he was 18 years old. He started as a cornet, which was a junior officer rank, in the 14th Light Dragoons. He quickly moved up the ranks, becoming a lieutenant and then a captain.
Saving an Emperor
One of his most famous moments happened in 1794 during the French Revolutionary Wars. Butler was part of a small group of soldiers escorting Emperor Francis II of Austria. A much larger French force tried to capture the Emperor.
Butler and seven other British officers, along with some soldiers, bravely charged the French. Their quick action saved the Emperor from being taken prisoner. The French soldiers fled, leaving their cannons behind.
For their courage, Emperor Francis II gave each of the eight British officers a special award called the Military Order of Maria Theresa. King George III also honored them by making them knights.
Later Military Career
After this heroic act, Butler continued to rise in the army. He became a major in the 87th Royal Irish Fusiliers regiment. He served with his regiment in the West Indies in 1797.
In 1804, he became a lieutenant-colonel. His regiment, the 87th, was sent to South America as part of a British invasion force. They attacked Montevideo and Buenos Aires. Butler showed great bravery in these battles.
From 1807 to 1810, Butler and the 1st battalion of the 87th regiment were stationed at the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa. He was made Commandant of Simonstown in 1809.
In 1810, he was part of a force sent to help capture Mauritius. However, the island was already taken by the time they arrived. Butler was promoted to colonel in 1811 and then major-general in 1814. He was appointed Commandant of Mahebourg in Mauritius. He retired from the army in 1818 due to poor health.
Death
Sir Edward Gerald Butler passed away in County Laois, Ireland, on November 30, 1824. He was 54 years old and was survived by his five children.
