James Caulfeild (soldier) facts for kids

James Caulfeild (born January 30, 1782 – died November 4, 1852) was an important Irish soldier and politician. He served in the British Army and worked as a special officer in British India. Later, he became a politician for the Liberal party in the United Kingdom.

About James Caulfeild's Family

James Caulfeild came from an important family in Ireland. His father was John Caulfeild, a church leader in County Cavan. His grandfather was Toby Caulfeild. James's mother was Euphemia Gordon.

Starting a Military Career in India

James Caulfeild began his military journey in 1798. He joined the Bengal Army, which was part of the East India Company. This company was a powerful British trading group that also ruled parts of India.

He arrived in India in September 1799. By June 1800, he became a Cornet, a junior officer rank. He then joined the 5th Native Cavalry. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 1805.

Serving in Important Roles

After some time away, James returned to India in 1812. He served with the Governor General's Bodyguard. This was a special unit protecting the top British official in India.

From 1817 to 1818, he fought in the Third Anglo-Maratha War. This war was between the British and the Maratha Empire in India. During this time, he became a Brevet Captain. He also became a brigade major for a force in Nagpur.

Becoming a Political Officer

In 1819, James Caulfeild started a new path. He became an assistant to the British Resident in Indore. A Resident was a British official who advised local Indian rulers. This marked the start of his career in the East India Company's Political Service.

Key Political Positions

From 1822 to 1832, James was a Political Agent in Haraoti. This area included the states of Bundi and Kotah. Later, in 1836, he became the Superintendent for the Mysore Princes.

In 1839, he took on a very important role. He was appointed the British Resident at Lucknow. This was a major position in British India.

Military Promotions and Recognition

While working as a political officer, James also continued to rise in military rank. He became a Captain in 1818 and a Major in 1823. By 1829, he was a Lieutenant-Colonel. In 1834, he became a Brevet Colonel.

For his service, he received an award called the CB in 1831. He also wrote a book called Observations on our Indian Administration, Civil and Military. It was published in 1831.

Returning Home and Entering Politics

James Caulfeild left India in 1841 and did not return. He continued to be promoted in the army. He became a Major-General in 1841 and a Lieutenant-General in 1851.

From 1848 to 1851, he was a Director of the East India Company. This meant he helped make important decisions for the company.

Becoming a Member of Parliament

James also decided to enter politics in the United Kingdom. He tried to win a seat in Parliament for Abingdon in 1845 and 1847. He finally won the election in July 1852.

However, his time as a Member of Parliament was short. He passed away in November 1852 at Copsewood, Ireland.

James Caulfeild's Family Life

James Caulfeild was married twice. His first wife was Letitia Stafford. They married in 1814 in Cawnpore, India. Letitia passed away in 1826.

Their son, James Gordon Caulfeild, was born in 1815. He also joined the Bengal Army. Sadly, he died in 1844.

James married his second wife, Anne Rachel Blake. She passed away in 1890. They had a son named George Caulfeild (1841–1922). George also had a military career and was a High Sheriff of Limerick. James and Anne had two more sons.