Sir James Caldwell, 4th Baronet facts for kids
Sir James Caldwell, 4th Baronet, Count of Milan (born around 1720 – died February 1784) was an important Anglo-Irish soldier and writer. He held special titles like "Baronet" (a hereditary title, like a knight) and "Count of Milan" (a noble title given by an Empress). Sir James Caldwell was known for his military service, his travels across Europe, and his work in politics.
Early Life and European Adventures
James Caldwell was the son of Sir John Caldwell, who was the 3rd Baronet. He studied at Trinity College Dublin and finished his studies in 1737. In 1741, he became a freeman of Derry, which meant he had special rights in that city.
In the early 1740s, James Caldwell went on a long trip around Europe called the Grand Tour. This was a common trip for young noblemen to learn about art, culture, and politics. During this trip, he joined the Austrian Imperial Army as an officer. This was the army of a powerful empire in Europe.
He worked as a special assistant, called an aide-de-camp, to Charles Emmanuel III of Sardinia, who was a king. His main job was to talk and negotiate with the Kingdom of Great Britain. In 1744, he inherited his father's baronetcy, becoming Sir James Caldwell, 4th Baronet.
In 1749, Empress Maria Theresa of Austria gave him the title of Count of Milan. However, Sir James did not want to promise his loyalty to Austria. So, he turned down a high position in the Empress's court and went back to Ireland in 1750. In 1753, he was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society, which is a group of very smart scientists.
Public Service and Military Work
Sir James Caldwell continued his public service in Ireland. In 1756, he was made a colonel, leading a group of soldiers called militia. He also became the High Sheriff of Fermanagh, which was an important law enforcement role in his home county.
Between 1759 and 1763, he created and paid for his own group of light horse soldiers. These soldiers helped to stop the activities of a group called the Whiteboys. In 1762, he became a member of the Privy Council of Ireland. This was a group of important advisors to the King in Ireland.
Sir James also worked to improve his family's land at Castle Caldwell. He even gave land for a Roman Catholic church to be built, which was a kind and important gesture at the time.
Writer and Family Life
Sir James Caldwell was also a writer. He recorded speeches made in the British Parliament, specifically in the House of Commons of Great Britain. He published these accounts in 1762. He also wrote about the speeches and activities in the Irish House of Commons from 1763 to 1764. These writings helped people understand what was happening in government.
He married Elizabeth Hort, who was the daughter of Josiah Hort. After Sir James Caldwell passed away, his eldest son, John Caldwell (who lived from 1756 to 1830), took over his title as the next Baronet.
