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Keith Stewart (Royal Navy officer) facts for kids

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Keith Stewart

Born 3 January 1814 (1814-01-03)
Died 15 September 1879 (1879-09-16) (aged 65)
Allegiance  United Kingdom
Service/branch Naval Ensign of the United Kingdom.svg Royal Navy
Rank Admiral
Commands held HMS Ringdove
HMS Nankin
HMS Termagant
Battles/wars
Awards Companion of the Order of the Bath
Relations George Stewart, 8th Earl of Galloway (father)
Lady Jane Paget (mother)
Henry Paget, 1st Marquess of Anglesey (uncle)

Keith Stewart (born January 3, 1814 – died September 15, 1879) was an important British Naval officer. He came from a powerful family with many people involved in politics and the military. He served in the Royal Navy for many years, becoming an Admiral.

Early Life and Family

Keith Stewart was born on January 3, 1814. His father was George Stewart, 8th Earl of Galloway, and his mother was Lady Jane Paget. His family was well-known in Britain.

A Career in the Navy

HMS 'Nankin' 50 Guns, Honourable Keith Stewart, Commander. - ILN 1855
HMS Nankin, commanded by Stewart in 1855

Keith Stewart joined the Navy when he was just 13 years old. This was on April 3, 1827. He started as a midshipman on a ship called HMS Asia. This ship was part of a big battle called the Battle of Navarino. This battle was part of the Greek War of Independence.

He quickly moved up in rank. By 1833, he became a lieutenant. He served on several ships, including HMS Stag and HMS Cornwallis.

Fighting Piracy and Slavery

In 1838, Stewart became a commander of HMS Ringdove. While in charge of this ship, he worked to stop the slave trade in the West Indies. This was a very important job at the time.

Later, he became the captain of HMS Nankin. He was praised for his efforts to protect ships from pirates in China. His brave actions helped keep trade routes safe.

Key Battles and Promotions

Stewart played a big role in the Second Opium War from 1857 to 1859. He was recognized for his service three times. In March 1857, he was promoted to commodore. He also received an important award, becoming a Companion of the Order of the Bath.

After the war, Stewart continued to rise through the ranks. He became a rear-admiral in 1862. Then, he was promoted to vice-admiral in 1867. Finally, in 1875, he reached the highest rank of Admiral.

Personal Life

On August 9, 1841, Keith Stewart married Mary Caroline FitzRoy. Her father was Sir Charles FitzRoy. Keith and Mary had nine children together.

Stewart passed away on September 15, 1879, at the age of 65.

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