Richard Nugent, 2nd Earl of Westmeath facts for kids
Richard Nugent, the 2nd Earl of Westmeath (born around 1621 or 1623, died in 1684), was an important Irish nobleman. He lived during a time of big changes and conflicts in Ireland.
His Life Story
Richard Nugent became the Earl of Westmeath after his grandfather passed away in 1641. His father, Christopher, had died before his grandfather. Richard's mother was Lady Anne MacDonnell.
Before 1641, he married Mary Nugent. She was related to him and was the daughter of Sir Thomas Nugent.
Troubled Times in Ireland
When the 1641 Rebellion began, Richard Nugent was arrested. People thought he might be involved in the uprising. Later, he became a leader in the army during the Irish Confederate Wars. He was a commander of the cavalry, which means he led soldiers on horseback.
He fought in the Battle of Dungan's Hill in 1647, where he was captured. From 1650 to 1652, he was the General of the Forces in Leinster, a part of Ireland. Some people at the time criticized his leadership. They said he didn't always get his army ready for battle.
During Oliver Cromwell's time in Ireland, Clonyn Castle, which was the main home of the Nugent family, was burned down. Some stories say that Lord Westmeath himself burned it. He did this to stop it from falling into the hands of his enemies.
After the Wars
Richard Nugent later gave up fighting and joined the side of the Parliament. However, he was still forced to move to Connaught, another part of Ireland. He really wanted to stay where he was and said he was loyal to the new government, but he had to move.
After Charles II became King again, Richard Nugent received a large payment. This was a reward for his loyalty to the King. He did not take part in public life after this.
His Family
Richard and Mary Nugent had several children:
- Christopher Nugent, Lord Delvin: He died before 1680 and had children.
- Lady Anne Nugent: She married twice and died after 1710. She did not have any children.
- Thomas Nugent, 1st Baron Nugent of Riverston: He became a very important judge in Ireland. The current Earls of Westmeath are his descendants.
- Lady Mary Nugent: She was born in 1648 and married Henry Barnewall.
- William Nugent: He was a Member of Parliament for County Westmeath.
- Lady Alison Nugent: She married Henry Dowdall.
- Lady Jane Nugent: She married Alexander MacDonnell in 1685.
Richard Nugent was succeeded by his grandson, Richard Nugent, 3rd Earl of Westmeath. This grandson was the eldest son of Christopher, Lord Delvin. The third Earl spent most of his adult life in France as a monk. When he died, the title passed to his two younger brothers, Thomas and John.
