John Sherlock facts for kids
John Sherlock (around 1705 – 25 July 1794) was an important Spanish general. He was a brigadier general in the Ultonia Regiment, which was part of the Irish Brigade in the Spanish Army. John Sherlock is famous for successfully defending the city of Melilla during a long, 100-day attack by Moroccan troops.
Who Was John Sherlock?
John Sherlock was born around 1705. His father, Peter Sherlock, had been given special titles by James III. James III was known as the Old Pretender, a person who claimed to be the rightful king of England. The Sherlock family had lost a lot of land in Ireland during the Irish Rebellion of 1641. Because of this, many Irish Catholics, like John, moved to Spain. They hoped to return to Ireland if a Catholic king ever ruled England again.
A Soldier in Spain
John Sherlock followed in his father's and grandfather's footsteps. He joined the Ultonia Regiment, which was also called the Ulster Regiment. This regiment was part of the Irish Brigade in the Spanish Army.
John Sherlock fought in the Anglo-Spanish War from 1727 to 1729. In this war, Spain tried to take back Gibraltar but did not succeed. Later, King Charles III of Spain made John Sherlock the commander of Melilla.
Defending Melilla
From December 9, 1774, to March 19, 1775, John Sherlock bravely defended Melilla. The city was under attack by the army of Mohammed ben Abdallah, the sultan of Morocco. It was a very long siege, lasting 100 days.
Finally, a Spanish fleet arrived with more soldiers and supplies. With these reinforcements, Sherlock was able to break the siege. His troops defeated the Moroccan army. Today, there is a monument to "Juan Sherlocke" at the entrance to the old town in Melilla.
Later Life and Legacy
After his great success in Melilla, John Sherlock was made the governor of Sanlúcar de Barrameda. He lived there until he passed away on July 25, 1794. He was 89 years old.
See also
In Spanish: Juan Sherlock para niños
