Geoffrey Baron (rebel) facts for kids

Geoffrey Baron (or Barron; 1607–1651) was an important Irish leader during a time of great change in Ireland. He was known for being a smart scholar and a skilled lawyer.

Who Was Geoffrey Baron?

Geoffrey Baron was born in Ireland in 1607. He was the older brother of another notable person, Bonaventure Baron. During the reign of King Charles I, Geoffrey became very well-known in Ireland. People respected him for his knowledge and his work as a lawyer.

Baron's Role in Irish Affairs

In 1642, Geoffrey Baron became very involved with a group called the Irish Confederates. This group was made up of Irish Catholics who wanted to protect their rights and their religion. Baron was chosen to be their representative, or "delegate," to the court of France. This meant he traveled to France to speak on behalf of the Confederates.

For a while, Baron also worked as the treasurer for the Irish Confederation. This meant he was in charge of their money. Throughout his life, people saw him as a very honest person who was truly dedicated to helping his fellow Roman Catholic countrymen.

Standing Up for Limerick

In 1651, a major event happened: the city of Limerick was under attack by the English Parliament's army. Geoffrey Baron strongly disagreed with the idea of Limerick surrendering. He believed they should keep fighting.

Because he opposed the surrender so strongly, when the city finally gave up, Baron was one of the people who would not be forgiven. This meant he would face serious consequences and could lose everything he owned.

When the English Parliament's troops entered Limerick in October 1651, Geoffrey Baron bravely gave himself up. He was questioned by the English leaders, including Henry Ireton. According to Edmund Ludlow, another English general, Baron explained that he should not be punished because he was fighting for the same things the English Parliament claimed to be fighting for: the freedom and religion of his country.

Geoffrey Baron faced a very difficult end in Limerick, but he met his fate with great courage.