Hayes St Leger, 2nd Viscount Doneraile facts for kids
Hayes St Leger, 2nd Viscount Doneraile, was an important figure in Irish politics during the late 1700s and early 1800s. He was born on March 9, 1755, and passed away on November 8, 1819. As an "Anglo-Irish" person, he had roots in both English and Irish cultures. He was also a "peer," which means he held a special noble title, passed down through his family.
Who Was Hayes St Leger?
Hayes St Leger came from a well-known family. His father was St Leger St Leger, 1st Viscount Doneraile. His great-grandfather was Arthur St Leger, 1st Viscount Doneraile. This means the title of "Viscount Doneraile" had been in his family for a long time. A Viscount is a noble rank, similar to a lord, and it often comes with land and influence.
A Career in Politics
Like his father, Hayes St Leger became involved in politics. He served in the Irish House of Commons. This was a part of the Irish Parliament, where elected representatives helped make laws for Ireland. He was a "Member of Parliament" (MP) for a place called Doneraile. He held this position from 1777 to 1787.
In 1787, something important happened. His father passed away, and Hayes inherited his father's title. This meant he became the 2nd Viscount Doneraile. With this new title, he moved from the House of Commons to the Irish House of Lords. The House of Lords was another part of the Irish Parliament, made up of nobles and bishops. He took his seat there on May 15, 1787.
His Family Life
Hayes St Leger also had a family. He married Charlotte Bernard on September 3, 1785. Charlotte was the daughter of James Bernard and Esther Smith. Hayes and Charlotte had three children together.
