John Elphinstone, 13th Lord Elphinstone facts for kids

John Elphinstone (born 1807, died 1860) was an important Scottish person. He was a soldier, a politician, and he helped manage colonies for Britain. He was known as the 13th Lord Elphinstone and later the 1st Baron Elphinstone.

He was chosen twice to be a Representative peer in the Parliament of the United Kingdom. This meant he represented Scotland in the government. He also served as the governor of two important places in India: Madras and Bombay.

Early Life and Military Career

John Elphinstone was born on June 23, 1807. He was the only son of the 12th Lord Elphinstone. When his father passed away in May 1813, John became the Lord Elphinstone.

In 1826, he joined the army. He started as a cornet in the Royal Horse Guards. He quickly moved up, becoming a lieutenant in 1828 and a captain in 1832. From 1835 to 1837, he worked for King William IV. The King even made him a special knight in 1836.

Governor of Madras

In 1837, John Elphinstone was chosen for a very important job. He became the governor of Madras in India. He worked there from 1837 to 1842. During this time, he built a house in the Nilgiri Hills.

After his time as governor, he traveled for several years. He even explored the beautiful region of Kashmir.

Governor of Bombay and the Indian Rebellion

John Elphinstone came back to England in 1845. In 1847, he started working for Queen Victoria. He held this job until 1852. He then worked for the Queen again in 1853.

Later in 1853, he was appointed governor of Bombay (now Mumbai) in India. This was a very challenging time. In 1857, a major uprising called the Indian Rebellion of 1857 broke out.

Elphinstone acted quickly to keep control in Bombay. He stopped the rebellion in several places. He also found out about a secret plan in Bombay itself. He arrested the leaders and prevented the plan from happening. He even sent some of his soldiers to help in other areas.

Later Life and Legacy

In 1858, John Elphinstone received another high honor. He was made a Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath.

When he returned to England in 1859, he was given a new title. He became the Baron Elphinstone of Elphinstone.

John Elphinstone passed away on July 19, 1860, in London. He never married. When he died, his title as Baron Elphinstone ended.