Thomas Conway facts for kids

Quick facts for kids

Thomas Conway (born February 27, 1735 – died around 1800) was an important military leader. He served as a major general in the American Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. He was also involved in a famous event called the Conway Cabal. Later, he fought with forces in France during the French Revolutionary War.

Early Life and Military Start

Thomas Conway was born in Ireland. His parents were James and Julieanne Conway. When he was a child, his family moved to France.

At just 14 years old, he joined the Irish Brigade in the French Army. He quickly rose through the ranks. By 1772, he had become a colonel.

Joining the American Revolution

When the American Revolutionary War began, Conway wanted to help the American rebels. In 1777, he offered his services to the Congress.

The Congress made him a brigadier general on May 13. They then sent him to meet George Washington, who was the commander of the Continental Army.

Conway's Role in Battle

Conway led a group of soldiers at the Battle of Germantown. He was in charge of the American right side. People praised him for how well he fought in this battle.

However, Washington did not want Conway to become a major general. Washington felt that many American officers had served longer and deserved the rank more. This disagreement caused problems between Washington and Conway.

Despite Washington's feelings, Congress made Conway a major general in December 1777. They also made him the inspector general of the army. This meant he would check how well the army was doing.

The Conway Cabal Event

Conway's name became part of a political disagreement known as the Conway Cabal. During this time, Conway wrote a letter to General Horatio Gates. In the letter, he said Washington was a "weak general." He also criticized Washington's battle plans against British General William Howe.

The letter said: "Heaven has been determined to save your country; or a weak general [George Washington] and bad counselors would have ruined it."

The Letter's Discovery

General James Wilkinson was supposed to deliver the letter, but he made a mistake. The letter was found by Washington and his supporters. They brought it to Congress for review.

When the letter's words became public, Conway lost his military position. He tried to resign, hoping Congress would refuse, as they had before. But this time, Congress accepted his resignation in March 1778. So, he had to leave the Continental Army.

Duel and Apology

On July 4, 1778, John Cadwalader shot Conway in a duel. Conway was hurt but recovered. After he got better, he wrote an apology letter to Washington. He then went back to France.

Later Life in France

Conway rejoined the French Army. In 1787, he became a Maréchal-de-camp, which is like a Major General. He was also made Governor of French colonies in India.

In 1793, he fought against the French Revolution in southern France. During the French Revolution, he faced serious danger. He was saved only by asking for help from Great Britain. This was ironic because he had fought against Britain in the American Revolution. He then had to leave France to save his life.

After this, Thomas Conway's story becomes less clear. It is thought that he died around 1800 in Ireland.