Thomas Meredyth facts for kids

Lieutenant-General Thomas Meredyth (born after 1661, died 1719) was an important Irish officer in the British Army. He also served as a politician, representing areas in both the Parliament of Ireland and the British Parliament. He was known for being a member of the Whig political group.

Early Life and Military Start

Thomas Meredyth was born in County Meath, Ireland. His father was Arthur Meredyth. Thomas first thought about becoming a lawyer, but he decided to join the army instead.

He began his military career serving King William III. He was a cavalry officer, meaning he rode horses in battle, during a war called the Nine Years' War in a place called Flanders (which is now part of Belgium). In 1691, he became a Captain in a cavalry unit. He then rose through the ranks, becoming a Lieutenant-Colonel. By 1701, he was made Adjutant-General of the Forces, a high-ranking officer who helps manage the army.

A Growing Military Career

In 1702, Thomas Meredyth became a Colonel, leading his own regiment (a large group of soldiers). This was just before the start of a big conflict called the War of the Spanish Succession. His regiment was part of the army led by the famous general, the Duke of Marlborough.

Meredyth showed great skill in battle. After the important Battle of Blenheim in 1704, he was promoted to Brigadier-General. This meant he was in charge of a Brigade, which is a group of several regiments. He continued to fight in major campaigns in 1705 and 1706, including battles in places like Eliksem.

Becoming a Politician

In 1706, Thomas Meredyth was promoted again, this time to Major-General. He also became the Governor of Tynemouth Castle in 1708.

He decided to enter politics and ran for a seat in the British Parliament for Midhurst. After some challenges, he officially became a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1709. As an MP, he supported new laws, like one that helped people from a region called Palatine move to England.

In 1709, he was promoted to Lieutenant-General, a very high rank in the army. The Duke of Marlborough tried to get him command of another regiment. However, the Queen had already promised that regiment to someone else. Still, Meredyth became Colonel of the Royal_Scots_Fusiliers regiment in 1710. He voted on important issues in Parliament.

Changes and Later Life

Thomas Meredyth lost his seat in Parliament in 1710. He also lost his military positions later that year because he disagreed with the government at the time.

However, when the political situation changed in 1714, Meredyth was given his jobs back. He was appointed Governor of Londonderry in Ireland. He also became a member of the Irish Privy Council, a group of important advisors to the monarch. He was also made Colonel of another regiment, the 20th Regiment of Foot.

Death and Family

Thomas Meredyth passed away in Dublin, Ireland, on June 19, 1719. He had three children with his wife. His son, Arthur, inherited his family estate. He also made sure to provide for other children in his will.