John Campbell (Indian Army officer, born 1802) facts for kids
Sir John Campbell (born 1802, died 1878) was a brave Scottish army officer. He worked for both the East India Company and the British Army. He fought in the Goomsoor War in 1836 and 1837. Later, he even helped govern the region of Orissa.
Early Life and Military Career
John Campbell was born in 1802 in Kingsburgh on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. His father was John Campbell of Lochend.
In 1819, he joined the British Army. However, he soon decided to join the East India Company in 1820. This company was very powerful and managed trade and parts of India for Britain. He thought he would have better chances there.
Service in India
In April 1820, John Campbell became a Lieutenant in the 41st Madras Native Infantry. He worked in the Madras area of India. By 1830, he was promoted to Captain.
In 1834, he was asked to help stop a rebellion. This uprising was happening in the Kimedy hills in the Orissa region. He took command of the troops and successfully ended the rebellion. Because he knew the area well, he was chosen to lead soldiers in the Goomsoor War in 1836 and 1837. This war was also in the Orissa region.
Later Career and Retirement
In 1842, he joined his old regiment, the 41st, for duty in China. Soon after, he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel. He also received an award called the Commander of the Order of the Bath (CB) in December.
However, he was asked to return to Madras. From 1847, he took charge of the Khonds people again. His replacement had not been very effective.
In 1849, he traveled to the Cape of Good Hope to improve his health. He returned to India in 1851. In 1853, he was promoted to Colonel. He went back to Scotland in 1855 and lived in Edinburgh. Even though he was mostly retired, he was promoted to Major General in 1859.
In 1866, Queen Victoria honored him. She made him a Knight Commander of the Star of India (KCSI). He was promoted to Lieutenant General in 1867. Finally, he became a full General in 1872.
Sir John Campbell passed away on April 21, 1878. He is buried in Dean Cemetery in Edinburgh.
Family Life
His wife, Elizabeth, died in 1883. She was buried next to him in Dean Cemetery.
