James Porter (Jacobite) facts for kids

Colonel James Porter was an important Irish politician and a strong supporter of King James II. He was active in politics and government between 1686 and 1701.

Who Was James Porter?

James Porter started his career as a trusted helper to King James II in 1686. He held a special role called a Groom of the Bedchamber, which meant he was a close personal assistant to the King.

His Role in Parliament

In 1689, James Porter was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Fethard, County Wexford. This was part of a special meeting called the Patriot Parliament of Ireland, which King James II had called. As an MP, James Porter helped make laws and decisions for the country.

Military Service

During the Williamite War in Ireland, a time when King James II fought to keep his throne, James Porter was a soldier. He started as a major and later became a lieutenant colonel in a group called Fitz-James’s Regiment of Infantry.

Life After the War

After the war in Ireland, James Porter went to France in 1689. He was sent by King James to try and get help from the French King Louis XIV and the Pope. However, these efforts to gain support were not successful.

In Exile with King James

Even after King James left Ireland in 1690, James Porter stayed with him in France. This was at the "Jacobite court," which was like King James's government in exile. In 1691, the new government in Ireland declared him an enemy, and his rights and property were taken away.

New Role in France

In 1701, when James Francis Edward Stuart, King James II's son, became the "rightful" King (even though he wasn't actually ruling), James Porter was given another important job. He became a senior official called the Vice-Chamberlain of the Household in France.