John Douglas (colonial administrator) facts for kids

Sir John Douglas (born December 5, 1836 – died August 22, 1885) was an important figure in the British government overseas. He was born in Limerick, Ireland. His father was Lieutenant General Sir James Dawes Douglas.

Sir John Douglas: A Life of Service

Sir John Douglas dedicated his career to public service in various British colonies. He held several key positions. These roles helped him manage and develop different parts of the British Empire.

Early Life and Family

John Douglas was born in 1836. His parents were Sir James Dawes Douglas and Marianne Bullock. In 1871, he married Alice Anne Claughton. Alice Anne was the daughter of Piers Calveley Claughton. Piers was a bishop in Colombo, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka). Sir John and Alice Anne had five children together.

A Career in Public Service

Sir John Douglas worked in the government of several British colonies. He started his career in Mauritius.

Roles in Mauritius and Ceylon

From 1859 to 1869, Douglas worked in the Civil Service of Mauritius. The Civil Service is like the government's staff. They help run the country. In 1869, he moved to Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka). There, he became the Auditor-General. This job meant he checked how the government spent its money. He held this role until 1876.

Serving the Straits Settlements

After Ceylon, Sir John Douglas became the Colonial Secretary of the Straits Settlements. This was a group of British territories in Southeast Asia. It included places like Singapore. He served there from February 1876 to August 1878. As Colonial Secretary, he was a very senior official. He helped the governor manage the colony.

Acting Governor of British Ceylon

Douglas returned to Ceylon in 1878. He became the Lieutenant-Governor and Colonial Secretary. From July 10 to December 3, 1883, he served as the Acting Governor of British Ceylon. This meant he was temporarily in charge of the entire colony. He took over after James Robert Longden and before Arthur Hamilton-Gordon.

Special Recognition

For his long and important service, Sir John Douglas received a special honour. He was made a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG). This happened in 1883. Being knighted meant he could use "Sir" before his name. It showed he was highly respected for his work.

Later Life and Legacy

Sir John Douglas passed away in Ceylon on August 22, 1885. He was buried at St Paul's Church in Kandy, Ceylon. His career showed a dedication to public service in different parts of the British Empire.