George Napier facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Napier
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| Born | 11 March 1751 |
| Died | 12 October 1804 (aged 53) |
| Allegiance | Kingdom of Great Britain |
| Service/ |
British Army |
| Years of service | 1767–1804 |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Battles/wars | American War of Independence |
| Spouse(s) | |
| Children | 6, including |
| Relations | Francis Napier, 6th Lord Napier (father) |
George Napier (born March 11, 1751 – died October 13, 1804) was a British Army officer. He is best known for his marriage to Lady Sarah Lennox and for his sons. Three of his sons became famous military leaders, sometimes called "Wellington’s Colonels." George Napier also worked as the head of Army Accounts in Ireland from 1799 until his death.
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Early Military Career
George Napier joined the British Army in 1767. He quickly moved up the ranks. By 1771, he was a Lieutenant, and by 1778, he became a Captain.
He served during the American War of Independence. This was a big war where the American colonies fought for their independence from Britain. Napier worked closely with Sir Henry Clinton, a top British general.
Rising Through the Ranks
After the American War, George Napier continued his military career. He became a Major in 1794 and then a Lieutenant-Colonel. By 1800, he reached the high rank of Colonel. This shows he was a dedicated and successful officer.
Family Life
George Napier was married twice. His first wife was Elizabeth Pollock, whom he married in 1775. They had a daughter, Louisa Mary, and a son, Henry. Sadly, Elizabeth passed away in 1778.
In 1781, George married Lady Sarah Lennox. She was the daughter of the Duke of Richmond. Lady Sarah was already well-known because her first marriage had ended in a public divorce. Together, George and Sarah had eight children.
Napier's Famous Sons
Three of George and Sarah's sons became very famous military officers:
- Sir Charles James Napier (1782–1853)
- Sir George Thomas Napier (1784–1855)
- Sir William Francis Patrick Napier (1785–1860)
These sons were all important figures in the British Army, especially during the time of the Duke of Wellington. They were so well-known that they were often called "Wellington's Colonels."
Life in Ireland
In 1785, George Napier moved his family to Celbridge in County Kildare, Ireland. Here, he became the Comptroller of Army Accounts. This was an important job where he managed the army's money.
During the Irish Rebellion of 1798, a time of unrest in Ireland, George Napier took action. He made sure his home was safe and armed his five sons to help defend it. He also offered a safe place for anyone who wanted to stand against the rebels.
In Popular Culture
In 1999, a TV miniseries called Aristocrats was made. It was based on the lives of Lady Sarah Lennox and her sisters. George Napier appeared in the series at different ages, played by actors Martin Glyn Murray and Jeremy Bulloch.
