Justin Sheil facts for kids

Sir Justin Sheil (born December 2, 1803 – died April 18, 1871) was an important Irish army officer and diplomat. He worked for the British government and was their main representative, called an "envoy," in Persia (modern-day Iran) from 1844 to 1854. He was also honored with the title Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB).

Early Life and Military Career

Justin Sheil was born on December 2, 1803, in Bellevue House, near Waterford, Ireland. His father was Edward Sheil, and his mother was Catherine McCarthy. He was also the brother of a famous person named Richard Lalor Sheil. Justin went to school at Stonyhurst College. After his studies, he joined the East India Company as a cadet, which meant he was training to become an officer in their army.

Service in India and Persia

When Sheil arrived in India, he became an ensign (a junior officer) in the 3rd Bengal infantry on March 4, 1820. Later, he moved to the 35th Bengal infantry and became its adjutant, a role that involves helping with administration and training. He was part of the Siege of Bharatpur, an important military event.

On April 13, 1830, he became a captain. Then, on July 4, 1833, he was chosen to be the second-in-command of the regular troops in Persia. His commander, Major Pasmore, had highly recommended him for this role.

Diplomatic Role in Persia

On February 16, 1836, Captain Sheil was appointed secretary to the British legation (a type of diplomatic office) in Persia. This was a big step in his career as a diplomat. In 1844, he took over from Sir John McNeill as the main British representative, known as the envoy and minister, at the Shah's court in Persia. He held this important position until he retired in 1854.

Promotions and Honors

During his career, Justin Sheil received several promotions. He became a major on February 17, 1841, and later a major-general in 1859. For his service, he was made a Companion of the Order of the Bath (C.B.) in 1848. In 1855, he received an even higher honor, becoming a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (K.C.B.).

Sir Justin Sheil passed away in London on April 18, 1871.

Writings and Contributions

Sir Justin Sheil also contributed to books and journals. He wrote notes about different groups of people and places, like the Koords, Turkomans, Nestorians, and Khiva. These notes were included in a book called Glimpses of Life and Manners in Persia, which was written by his wife and published in London in 1856.

He also published two articles in the Royal Geographical Society's Journal, volume eight. One was titled "Notes of a Journey from Kurdistan to Suleimaniyeh in 1836," and the other was "Itinerary from Tehran to Alamut in May 1837." These writings shared his experiences and observations from his travels.

Family Life

Sir Justin Sheil married a writer named Mary Leonora Woulfe. She was the daughter of Stephen Woulfe, who was a very important judge in Ireland. Mary Leonora passed away in 1869 and is buried in Glasnevin Cemetery in Ireland.

Sir Justin and Mary Leonora had ten children together. Some of their notable children include:

• Edward Sheil: He became a politician.
• Mary Emily: She married her cousin, John Woulfe Flanagan, who was a leading journalist.
• Laura: She married a Spanish diplomat named Pedro de Zulueta. Their son, Francis de Zulueta, became a well-known professor of law at the University of Oxford.