Matthew Plunkett, 7th Baron Louth facts for kids

Matthew Plunkett, 7th Baron Louth was an important Irish nobleman and soldier. He lived in the 1600s and played a part in a major war in Ireland. He was known for supporting King James II.

Early Life and Family

Matthew Plunkett was the son of Oliver Plunkett, 6th Baron Louth. His mother was Lady Mary Dillon. Her father was Randal MacDonnell, 1st Earl of Antrim, a very important leader. Matthew was born into a family with a long history in Ireland.

Becoming a Nobleman

In 1679, Matthew's father passed away. Matthew then became the 7th Baron Louth. A "Baron" is a special title of nobility. It is passed down through families. As a Baron, he gained a seat in the Irish House of Lords. This was a part of the Irish government, similar to a parliament. It was where important decisions were made for Ireland.

Military and Political Roles

Matthew Plunkett was a loyal supporter of James II of England, who was the King at the time.

• In 1685, King James II asked him to join the Irish Army.
• By 1687, he became a "colonel." This meant he was a leader of a group of soldiers called a "regiment." His regiment was known as Lord Louth's Regiment.
• In the same year, he was given another important job. He became the Lord Lieutenant of Louth and Drogheda. A Lord Lieutenant was the King's main representative in a county. They were in charge of keeping order and leading the local military.

Role in the Williamite War

Matthew Plunkett was involved in the Williamite War in Ireland. This was a big conflict in Ireland from 1689 to 1691. It was fought between supporters of King James II and supporters of William III of England. Matthew Plunkett fought on the side of King James II.

• In 1689, he helped in the Siege of Derry. This was a famous battle where a city was surrounded. He was in charge of the "mortars," which were large cannons used to fire bombs.
• When King James II arrived in Ireland in March 1689, Matthew Plunkett was given a special role. He became a member of the Privy Council of Ireland. This was a group of trusted advisors to the King.
• He also took part in the Patriot Parliament that same year. This was a parliament called by King James II in Dublin.

Later Life and Family

Matthew Plunkett died in September 1689. After his death, the government of King William III declared him an "outlaw." This meant he was considered outside the law.

On February 4, 1664, Matthew Plunkett married Jane Fitzgerald. She was the daughter of Sir Luke Fitzgerald. They had two sons and four daughters together. Many years later, one of his descendants, the eleventh Baron Louth, was able to clear his name. This meant the "outlaw" status was removed, and the family title was fully recognized again.