William Cochrane, 7th Earl of Dundonald facts for kids
William Cochrane, 7th Earl of Dundonald, (born October 1729 – died 8 or 9 July 1758) was a Scottish nobleman and a soldier. He held the title of Earl of Dundonald, which meant he was a high-ranking member of the nobility in Scotland.
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Early Life and First Steps
William Cochrane was born in Paisley, Scotland. His father was Thomas Cochrane, who was the 6th Earl of Dundonald.
A Young Rebel
When he was just sixteen years old, William got involved in the Jacobite rising of 1745. This was a rebellion led by Charles Edward Stuart, who wanted to reclaim the British throne for his family. William volunteered to join the rebels. However, soldiers in Edinburgh nearly harmed him when he tried to enter the city. After this close call, he seemed to change his mind and did not support the rebellion any further.
Military Career
After his brief involvement in the rebellion, William Cochrane began a proper military career.
Service Abroad
In 1750, William traveled to the Dutch Republic (which is now the Netherlands). There, he served as a captain in a group called the Scots Brigade. He stayed with them from 1750 to 1753. After this, he returned to Paisley and spent several years involved in local community matters.
Joining the British Army
On January 21, 1756, William officially became an officer in the British army. He was made a lieutenant in a new regiment called the 52nd/50th Foot in England. He quickly rose through the ranks. On February 2, 1757, he was promoted to captain-lieutenant in the 1st battalion of the 1st or Royal Regiment of Foot in Ireland.
The Siege of Louisbourg
On the very same day, William was also promoted to captain in the 17th Foot in Ireland. This regiment soon sailed to take part in an important battle called the siege of Louisbourg. This siege happened in what is now Nova Scotia, Canada.
During the siege, Captain Cochrane was in charge of a company of grenadiers. Grenadiers were special soldiers known for throwing grenades and leading attacks.
Death and Legacy
Sadly, William Cochrane was killed in action during the siege. This happened during the night of July 8 or 9, 1758. He died during a surprise attack by the French soldiers defending Louisbourg.
William Cochrane was buried where he fell. Today, a stone stands in his memory between the ruined walls of Louisbourg and a place called Black Rock. Since he had no children, his family line ended with him. His title, Earl of Dundonald, was then passed on to his second cousin, Thomas Cochrane, 8th Earl of Dundonald.
