Galloping Hogan facts for kids
Michael "Galloping" Hogan was a famous Irish rapparee, which means he was a type of outlaw or rebel. He lived during a time when England was taking more control of Ireland, known as the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland.
Who Was Galloping Hogan?
Michael Hogan was born in a place called Doon, in East Limerick, near the Slieve Phelim hills. Before he became a rapparee, he might have been a wealthy landowner.
A Daring Exploit
In 1690, Michael Hogan showed his bravery and skill. He helped Patrick Sarsfield and 500 Jacobite soldiers. These soldiers were fighting for King James II. They blew up a special collection of big cannons and supplies. This was called the Williamite siege train. It happened at Ballyneety, in County Limerick. Some people say that Galloping Hogan was given the important job of lighting the fuse himself!
Life After the War
The war, known as the Williamite War, ended in October 1691. This was when the Treaty of Limerick was signed. However, Galloping Hogan did not agree with the treaty. He kept fighting for another six months.
In the spring of 1692, he left Ireland from Cork. He was part of the last group of Irish soldiers who left their homeland. This event is known as the Flight of the Wild Geese. These "Wild Geese" were Irish soldiers who went to serve in armies in other countries.
Later Years in Portugal
Michael Hogan first went to France. There, he became a general in the army. Later, in 1706, he had to leave France. He moved to Portugal and continued his military career there.
He became a senior officer in the Portuguese army. In May 1712, he helped the Portuguese army win a battle against the Spanish. This battle took place at Campo Maior, Portugal. Michael Hogan stayed in Portugal for the rest of his life. He had a respected family whose descendants still live there today.
