William O'Brien, 3rd Earl of Inchiquin facts for kids

William O'Brien (born 1662, died 1719) was an important Irish nobleman. He held several titles, including the 3rd Earl of Inchiquin. He was also a member of the Privy Council of Ireland, which was a group of advisors to the King or Queen.
William O'Brien's Life
William O'Brien was the son of William O'Brien, 2nd Earl of Inchiquin. His mother was Lady Margaret Boyle. He married his cousin, Mary Villiers. Mary's father was Sir Edward Villiers. Her mother was Frances Howard.
Political Roles
In 1689, William O'Brien was away from Ireland. The Irish Parliament of King James II tried to take away his titles and lands. This was because he supported King William III.
In 1693, he became the Governor of Kinsale, an important town in Ireland. Later, in 1697, he signed a special paper. This paper showed his loyalty to King William III. It happened after someone tried to assassinate the King.
William O'Brien also advised Queen Anne and King George I. He was a 'Privy Councillor' for both monarchs. This meant he was part of a special group that gave advice to the ruler. In 1703, he became a Colonel in the army. From 1704 to 1705, he was the Mayor of Kilkenny. He was also made the Governor of County Clare.
William O'Brien's Family
William O'Brien and Mary Villiers had several children:
- Donal O'Brien, born in 1689.
- William O'Brien, 4th Earl of Inchiquin (1700 – 1777). He later became the 4th Earl.
- Mary O'Brien, who married Robert FitzGerald, 19th Earl of Kildare. They got married in 1709. They had two sons and one daughter.
- Charles O'Brien, who was a Lieutenant in the Royal Navy.
- James O'Brien (died 1771). He married Mary Jephson. They had three sons and two daughters.
- Henrietta O'Brien (died 1730). She married Robert Sandford in 1717. They had one daughter.