John Cochrane (Royalist) facts for kids

Sir John Cochrane (died around 1650) was a Scottish soldier and a diplomat. He worked to help the king during a difficult time in England.

Who Was Sir John Cochrane?

Sir John Cochrane was the oldest son of Alexander Blair. When Alexander married Elizabeth Cochrane, he took on the name Cochrane. John's younger brother, William Cochrane, later became the first Earl of Dundonald, a noble title.

A Soldier for the King

In 1640, John Cochrane was in charge of a group of soldiers in Edinburgh. The next year, he was involved in a plan to capture important leaders of the Parliament. He was arrested but later released.

After his release, he joined King Charles I in York in 1642. The king then put him in charge of the town of Towcester in 1643. Because he supported the king, he lost his lands in 1644.

Diplomatic Missions

King Charles I sent Sir John Cochrane to Denmark to ask for help, like soldiers or money. He came back with the Danish ambassador, who tried to help the king and Parliament make peace. Sir John was arrested again in London during this time.

Later, he traveled to places like Hamburg, Danzig, and Poland. His job was to collect money to support the king's cause. He was still alive in 1650. He likely passed away before 1660. His wife was from the Butler family, who were part of the important Ormonde family.