Richard Munden (British Army officer) facts for kids

Richard Munden (born around June 25, 1680, died December 19, 1725) was an important officer in the British Army. He was also a Member of Parliament for a short time, from 1708 to 1710. He fought in big wars like the War of the Spanish Succession and helped stop the Jacobite rebellion.

Richard Munden's Early Life

Richard Munden was born after his father, Sir Richard Munden, had passed away. His father was a captain in the Royal Navy. Even though his family had a history with the navy, Richard chose a different path.

He joined the army and became a captain in the 1st Foot Guards in 1702. This was a special group of soldiers. He fought in the famous Battle of Blenheim in 1704. Two years later, in 1706, he became a colonel. He then fought in another major battle called the Battle of Ramillies. By 1708, he was given command of his own group of soldiers, known as a regiment.

A Soldier and Politician

In the spring of 1708, Richard Munden and his troops were sent back to England. Around this time, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Camelford. This meant he helped make laws for the country.

However, he was often away from Parliament because of his military duties. Because of this, he did not try to be elected again in 1710.

Important Battles and Promotions

In December 1710, Munden was captured during the Battle of Brihuega. He stayed in Spain as a prisoner until peace talks ended the war.

In 1712, he was promoted to brigadier-general. But his regiment was disbanded, and he was put on half-pay. This meant he received less money because he was not actively serving.

In 1715, he raised a new regiment of horse soldiers. He became the colonel of the 13th Light Dragoons. He fought against rebels in the Battle of Preston. In 1716, he received money that was owed to him for his service in Spain. He also joined the general staff in Ireland. From 1722, he served as Colonel of the 8th Dragoons. He even took part in the funeral parade for the Duke of Marlborough in August 1722.

Death

Richard Munden died while still serving in the army. He passed away in Dublin, Ireland, on September 19, 1725.