James Hamilton, 1st Earl of Clanbrassil (first creation) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Hamilton, 1st Earl of Clanbrassil
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James Hamilton, 1st Earl of Clanbrassil
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| Member of the Ireland Parliament for Down |
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| In office 1634–1635 |
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| Preceded by | Hugh Montgomery, 1st Viscount Montgomery |
| Succeeded by | James Montgomery |
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| Born | c. 1618 |
| Died | 20 June 1659 |
| Spouse | Lady Anne Carey |
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James Hamilton, 1st Earl of Clanbrassil (born around 1618 – died June 20, 1659) was an important person in Irish history. He was a nobleman, a soldier, and a politician. He came from a Scottish family who had settled in Ulster, Ireland. James was a strong supporter of King Charles I during a time of great conflict.
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Early Life and Family Background
James Hamilton was the son of the 1st Viscount Claneboye. His mother was Jane Philips. His father had worked for James VI of Scotland before he became King of England. Because of this, his father was given a lot of land in Ireland. This made the Hamilton family very powerful and wealthy.
A Young Politician in Ireland
From 1634 to 1635, James Hamilton was a Member of Parliament. He represented County Down in the Irish House of Commons. This was like being a representative in today's government. He helped make laws and decisions for Ireland.
Supporting the King in Civil War
When the English Civil War began, James Hamilton showed his loyalty to King Charles I. He gathered his own soldiers to fight for the King. He put together a group of foot soldiers and a troop of horsemen. He paid for these soldiers himself for eight years. This showed how dedicated he was to the King's cause.
In 1644, James inherited his father's title, becoming the Viscount Claneboye. However, King Charles I's forces were defeated by Parliament's army. As a result, James Hamilton's lands were taken away by Oliver Cromwell, who led the Parliament's army.
Becoming an Earl
Despite the King's defeat, Charles I recognized James Hamilton's loyalty. On June 7, 1647, the King made him the Earl of Clanbrassil. This was a new, higher noble title in the Peerage of Ireland. It was a special honor for his service.
Later, under a new government called The Protectorate, some loyal supporters of the King were allowed to get their lands back. James Hamilton was one of these people. In 1654, he got his estates back. He had to pay a large sum of money, £9,435, to do so. After his death, his second son took over his title.
A Marriage That Didn't Happen
In 1638, James Hamilton was supposed to marry Lady Mary Boyle. She was only 13 years old and the daughter of a very powerful man, the 1st Earl of Cork. However, this marriage never happened.
Mary Boyle was a very strong-willed young woman. She refused to marry James, even though her father put a lot of pressure on her. It was very unusual for a young girl to go against her father's wishes back then. Mary was known for her strong character from a young age. Even her father admitted he couldn't control "my unruly daughter." Because he cared for her, he let the marriage agreement end.
His Own Family Life
On September 23, 1641, James Hamilton married Lady Anne Carey. They had four children together:
- James Hamilton, who was known as Viscount Claneboye (1642-1658)
- Henry Hamilton, 2nd Earl of Clanbrassill (1647–1675)
- Hans Hamilton
- Lady Jane Hamilton (who never married)
