What was the primary objective of the Jacobite rising of 1745?

The Jacobite rising of 1745 was an attempt by Charles Edward Stuart, also known as Bonnie Prince Charlie, to regain the British throne for his father, James Francis Edward Stuart. This effort was part of a long-standing series of attempts by the House of Stuart to reclaim the monarchy after their deposition in the Glorious Revolution of 1688.

In what broader historical conflict did the Jacobite rising of 1745 take place?

The rising occurred during the War of the Austrian Succession, a major European conflict that drew in most of the great powers. This timing was strategic, as it meant the bulk of the British Army was engaged in fighting on the European continent, potentially leaving Britain itself more vulnerable.

What was the significance of the Jacobite rising of 1745 in the context of previous Jacobite attempts?

The 1745 rising was the last major Jacobite revolt, following significant earlier outbreaks in 1715 and 1719. These rebellions were all aimed at restoring the Stuart monarchy to the British throne, which had been lost after the deposition of James II and VII.

When and where did Charles Edward Stuart officially begin the Jacobite rising of 1745?

Charles Edward Stuart launched the rebellion on August 19, 1745, by raising the Royal Standard at Glenfinnan in the Scottish Highlands. This act marked the formal commencement of the military campaign to challenge the Hanoverian government.

What key military successes did the Jacobite army achieve in Scotland in September 1745?

In September 1745, the Jacobite army captured Edinburgh and secured a significant victory at the Battle of Prestonpans. This early success boosted morale and demonstrated the effectiveness of their forces against government troops.

What were the two main assurances Charles Edward Stuart gave to the Scots that led them to agree to invade England?

Charles assured his Scottish supporters of substantial support from English Jacobites and a simultaneous French landing in Southern England. These promises were crucial in convincing the Scottish leadership to commit to an invasion of England.

What was the furthest point the Jacobite army reached in England during the 1745 rising?

The Jacobite army reached Derby on December 4, 1745, which was the furthest point south they advanced into England. This marked the peak of their territorial advance during the rebellion.

What factors led to the Jacobite army's decision to retreat from Derby?

The decision to retreat was influenced by several factors, including the failure of promised English Jacobite support to materialize, the lack of a French landing, and the approach of several government armies. Facing the risk of being outnumbered and cut off, the majority of the council advised a retreat.

What were the outcomes of the Battle of Falkirk Muir and the Battle of Culloden?

The Jacobites achieved a victory at the Battle of Falkirk Muir in January 1746, repelling government forces. However, this was followed by their decisive defeat at the Battle of Culloden in April 1746, which effectively ended the rebellion.

What happened to Charles Edward Stuart after the defeat at Culloden?

After the Battle of Culloden, Charles Edward Stuart evaded capture and eventually escaped to France. He was unable to rally further support for another attempt and died in Rome in 1788.

What event led to the replacement of King James II & VII on the British throne?

The Glorious Revolution of 1688 replaced the Catholic King James II & VII with his Protestant daughter Mary and her Dutch husband, William. This event fundamentally altered the line of succession and the religious landscape of Britain.

How did the Act of Settlement 1701 influence the succession to the British throne?

The Act of Settlement 1701 stipulated that only Protestants could inherit the throne, thereby excluding Catholics. This law established Sophia of Hanover, a Protestant relative, as the heir presumptive, ensuring a Protestant succession and preventing the return of the Catholic Stuart line.

What was the role of Louis XIV of France in supporting the exiled Stuarts?

Louis XIV of France was the primary supporter of the exiled Stuarts, providing assistance to James Francis Edward Stuart. However, his successors prioritized peace and economic recovery, making large-scale support for Jacobite restoration less appealing.

Why did James Francis Edward Stuart's settlement in Rome make him less attractive to potential British supporters?

James Francis Edward Stuart settled in Rome on a Papal pension, which made him appear more closely tied to Catholicism. This was a significant disadvantage, as the majority of his potential supporters in Britain were Protestant and wary of Catholic influence.

What were the outcomes of the Jacobite rebellions of 1715 and 1719?

Both the 1715 and 1719 Jacobite rebellions failed to achieve their objective of restoring the Stuarts to the throne. The 1719 rising was particularly unsuccessful, leading planners to conclude it might "ruin the King's Interest and faithful subjects."

How did French statesmen view Britain's commercial strength in the late 1730s?

By the late 1730s, French statesmen began to perceive Britain's growing commercial strength as a threat to the European balance of power. This led them to consider the exiled Stuarts as a potential tool to weaken British influence.

Why were the Scottish Highlands considered a suitable location for launching a Jacobite uprising?

The Scottish Highlands were remote and less developed, making them an ideal launching point for an uprising. Additionally, the clan-based social structure facilitated the raising of troops, although the feudal nature also meant chiefs were often heavily indebted.

What were some of the underlying reasons for opposition to the London government's policies in Scotland prior to 1745?

Opposition stemmed from various sources, including resentment over taxes like the 1725 malt tax, and a general dissatisfaction with the loss of political autonomy following the 1707 Acts of Union. Events like the Porteous riots in 1737 highlighted this discontent.

What was the significance of the "Pacte de Famille" in 1743 concerning Britain and France?

The 1743 "Pacte de Famille" was an agreement between Louis XV of France and Philip V of Spain to cooperate against Britain. This pact included plans for an invasion aimed at restoring the Stuarts to the British throne.

Why was Dunkirk chosen as the assembly point for the planned French invasion in 1744?

Dunkirk was selected because it was a strategic port from which French forces could potentially reach the Thames in a single tide. This proximity made it a logical staging ground for an invasion aimed at the heart of Britain.

What happened to the French invasion fleet in January 1744?

The French invasion fleet, assembled at Dunkirk, was largely wrecked by storms shortly after setting sail. This disaster, similar to what occurred in 1719, prevented the planned invasion and was a major setback for the Jacobite cause.

What was Charles Edward Stuart's gamble regarding French support for his Scottish campaign?

Charles gambled that once he arrived in Scotland, the French government would be compelled to support him, despite their initial reluctance. He proceeded with his landing in Scotland without a guaranteed French military contingent.

What was the outcome of the battle between HMS Lion and the French ships carrying Charles Edward Stuart?

During the journey to Scotland, HMS Lion intercepted the French ships. After a battle, both HMS Lion and the *Elizabeth* (carrying weapons and volunteers) were forced to return to port, though the *Du Teillay*, carrying Charles, managed to land him in Scotland.

What advice did some Scottish leaders give Charles Edward Stuart upon his arrival in Scotland?

Upon Charles's arrival, many contacted Scottish leaders advised him to return to France. They felt he had failed to meet his commitments by arriving without French military support and were unconvinced by his leadership qualities.

Who was Duncan Forbes, and what was his role in opposing the Jacobite rising?

Duncan Forbes, Lord President of Scotland, was a key figure in organizing opposition to the Jacobites. He tirelessly worked to maintain loyalty to the government among various clans and influential figures, though he was not always successful.

What was the significance of the Battle of Prestonpans for the Jacobite cause?

The Battle of Prestonpans, fought on September 21, 1745, resulted in a swift and decisive victory for the Jacobites against government forces led by Sir John Cope. This success allowed Charles to enter Edinburgh unopposed and significantly boosted the rebellion's momentum.

What were the "Declarations" published by Charles Edward Stuart in October 1745?

In October 1745, Charles published two declarations: one dissolved the "pretended Union" of Scotland and England, and the other rejected the Act of Settlement. These declarations aimed to rally support by addressing key grievances and asserting his claim to the throne.

How did the Jacobite army advance into England in November 1745?

The Jacobite army divided into two columns to conceal their destination from government forces and entered England on November 8, 1745. They advanced through Carlisle and Preston, reaching Manchester before continuing south to Derby.

What was the condition of Carlisle's defenses when the Jacobites arrived in November 1745?

Carlisle's defenses were in poor condition, with a garrison of only 80 elderly veterans. Despite this, the Jacobites lacked siege artillery, making a prolonged siege necessary, which they could ill afford due to time constraints.

Who commanded the Manchester Regiment, and what was its significance?

The Manchester Regiment was formed from English recruits in Manchester, commanded by Francis Towneley. This regiment represented one of the few significant English contingents to join the Jacobite army during the 1745 rising.

What assurances did Charles give that persuaded the Scottish Council to continue the march to Derby?

Charles assured the Scottish Council that prominent English Jacobites, such as Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, would meet them at Derby, and that the Duke of Beaufort was preparing to seize Bristol. These assurances, though ultimately inaccurate, were crucial in gaining support for the advance.

What was the situation regarding French support when the Jacobite army reached Derby?

Upon reaching Derby on December 4, 1745, there was no sign of the promised reinforcements or a French landing. This lack of external support was a critical factor in the subsequent decision to retreat.

What news did Lord Drummond bring that influenced the decision to retreat from Derby?

Lord Drummond reported that French ships had landed a small number of troops, supplies, and money at Montrose, Angus. While the numbers were modest, the claim that a larger French force was preparing to follow significantly influenced the Council's decision to retreat.

What was the strategic impact of the Jacobite army's retreat from Derby?

The retreat, while perhaps strategically sound given their circumstances, severely damaged the relationship between Charles and his Scottish supporters. Both sides developed suspicion and hostility towards each other, weakening the rebellion's cohesion.

What was the state of the Jacobite army when Cumberland resumed operations in April 1746?

By April 1746, the Jacobite army was short of food and money, leading them to agree that fighting was their best option. They faced a well-rested and equipped government force under the Duke of Cumberland.

What tactical error did Charles Edward Stuart order at the Battle of Culloden?

At the Battle of Culloden, Charles ordered his front line to charge the government positions. This charge was hampered by boggy ground, which forced the Highlanders to the right, disrupting their formation and exposing them to devastating artillery fire.

How did the government forces counter the Highland charge at Culloden?

The Duke of Cumberland's forces had been intensively drilled to counter the Highland charge, which relied on speed and ferocity. When the charge faltered due to the terrain and artillery fire, the Highlanders were unable to break the government lines and suffered heavy losses.

What happened to the Jacobite survivors after the Battle of Culloden?

After the battle, an estimated 1,500 Jacobite survivors assembled at Ruthven Barracks, where Charles ordered them to disperse until he could return with further support. Many were later captured or killed, and Charles himself eventually escaped to France.

What measures did government forces take in the Highlands after the Battle of Culloden?

Following Culloden, government forces searched for rebels, confiscated cattle, and burned non-juring Episcopalian and Catholic meeting houses. These actions were partly driven by the expectation of another French landing.

What was the outcome for the Jacobites indicted for treason after the rising?

Of the 3,500 Jacobites indicted for treason, 120 were executed, primarily army deserters and members of the Manchester Regiment. Many others died awaiting trial, were pardoned, or transported to the colonies.

What was the significance of the "General Pardon Act 1746"?

The General Pardon Act 1746 was enacted to release most of the remaining Jacobite prisoners. This reflected a shift in public opinion against further executions and a desire to move past the conflict.

How did the Vesting Act 1747 affect Jacobite estates?

The Vesting Act 1747 led to the survey and confiscation of estates belonging to 51 individuals attainted for their roles in the 1745 rising. Most of these estates were subsequently sold or claimed by creditors, with some becoming Crown land.

What was the "Act of Proscription 1746", and what did it outlaw?

The Act of Proscription 1746 outlawed Highland dress, including tartan, unless worn in military service. This was intended to suppress Highland culture, which was associated with Jacobitism, though the law's effectiveness is debated and it was later repealed.

How did the focus on "Bonnie Prince Charlie" affect the understanding of the 1745 rising?

The romanticized focus on "Bonnie Prince Charlie" has often obscured the fact that many participants in the 1745 rising were motivated by opposition to the Act of Union, rather than solely by loyalty to the Stuarts. This nationalist motivation is seen as a continuation of a political idea rather than just the end of a Highland cause.

What was the historical perception of Highlanders before 1745, and how did it change?

Before 1745, Highlanders were often perceived as "wyld, wykkd Helandmen," distinct from other Scots. After the rising, this perception shifted towards viewing them as members of a noble warrior race, partly influenced by their role in the rebellion and subsequent military recruitment policies.

How did Walter Scott's novel "Waverley" influence the perception of the 1745 rising?

Walter Scott's 1814 novel "Waverley" presented the rising as part of a shared Unionist history, offering a romanticized view. The novel's narrative, which involved an Englishman fighting for the Stuarts and ultimately reconciling with the Hanoverian establishment, helped to integrate the '45 into a broader British historical context.

What Victorian cultural elements were influenced by the need to reconcile the Jacobite past with a Unionist present?

The reconciliation process led to the Victorian invention or popularization of elements like Burns Suppers, Highland Games, tartans, and the adoption of Catholic icons like Mary, Queen of Scots, and Bonnie Prince Charlie by a predominantly Protestant nation. These cultural aspects helped shape modern perceptions of Scotland's past.

What was the significance of the "Seven Men of Moidart"?

The "Seven Men of Moidart" were a small group of key advisors and companions who accompanied Charles Edward Stuart on his voyage to Scotland in 1745. They played important roles in the early stages of the rebellion, with figures like John O'Sullivan serving as chief of staff.

What was the primary reason for the failure of the 1744 French invasion plan?

The primary reason for the failure of the 1744 French invasion plan was the severe weather that wrecked the invasion fleet shortly after it set sail. This disaster, coupled with the Royal Navy's blockade efforts, prevented the planned landing in Britain.

What was the role of the "Prince's Council" during the 1745 rising?

The "Prince's Council" was established to advise Charles Edward Stuart, consisting of 15 to 20 senior Jacobite leaders. However, it became a source of tension, as Charles resented its imposition, and daily meetings highlighted divisions between different factions within the movement.

Jacobite Rising Of 1745 Wiki: The '45: A Jacobite Chronicle

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Historical Context

The Stuart Succession Crisis

The Glorious Revolution of 1688 replaced the Catholic King James II & VII with his Protestant daughter Mary and her husband William. Following the death of Queen Anne without surviving heirs, the Act of Settlement 1701 barred Catholics from the throne, leading to the Hanoverian succession. James Francis Edward Stuart, James II's son, remained the legitimate heir in the eyes of Jacobites, but his Catholicism made him unacceptable to the Protestant majority.

Shifting Alliances and French Ambitions

France, a primary supporter of the exiled Stuarts, initially sought to weaken Britain. However, by the late 1730s, French ministers viewed the Stuarts as unreliable and preferred to use them as a diplomatic tool rather than a genuine restoration project. The remote Scottish Highlands, with its clan structure, offered a strategic location for a potential diversionary tactic against British power.

Scottish Discontent and the Union

Opposition to the 1707 Acts of Union was a significant driver for Jacobite support in Scotland. Many Scots felt that the loss of their Parliament and autonomy was not matched by economic benefits. Resentment over taxation, such as the malt tax, and a desire to restore Scottish sovereignty fueled the movement, particularly among Highland clans who were also facing economic pressures.

The '45 Campaign

Launching the Rebellion

Charles Edward Stuart, known as Bonnie Prince Charlie, landed in the Scottish Highlands in August 1745, initiating the rising. Despite lacking substantial French military support, he rallied Highlanders and captured Edinburgh. The Jacobite army achieved a significant victory at the Battle of Prestonpans, boosting morale and seeming to validate Charles's claims.

The March South

Following assurances of English Jacobite support and a promised French landing, the Jacobite army invaded England in November 1745. They reached Derby, but the anticipated reinforcements failed to materialize. Facing superior government forces and logistical challenges, the decision to retreat north was made, causing a critical rift between Charles and his Scottish commanders.

Internal Divisions and Strategy

The Jacobite cause was plagued by internal divisions. Charles's autocratic style and reliance on Irish advisors clashed with the strategic concerns of his Scottish leaders, like Lord George Murray. A "Prince's Council" was formed, but daily meetings exacerbated factionalism, particularly regarding the decision to invade England and the reliance on uncertain foreign aid.

Key Engagements

Prestonpans (September 1745)

A swift and decisive Jacobite victory that scattered government forces under Sir John Cope. This success allowed Charles to capture Edinburgh and consolidate his control over much of Scotland, bolstering the perception of French support.

Clifton Moor Skirmish (December 1745)

A minor engagement during the Jacobite retreat from England. It highlighted the difficulties faced by the retreating army and the pursuit by government forces under the Duke of Cumberland.

Falkirk Muir (January 1746)

A Jacobite victory that repulsed government forces led by General Henry Hawley. However, this success was tempered by the ongoing, unsuccessful siege of Stirling Castle, which consumed valuable resources and time.

Culloden (April 1746)

The final, devastating battle of the rising. The Jacobite army, weakened by fatigue and outnumbered, was decisively defeated by the Duke of Cumberland's forces. This marked the end of the military threat posed by the Jacobites.

The battle commenced with a superior government artillery bombardment. The Jacobite charge, hampered by boggy ground, lost momentum and was exposed to devastating grapeshot. Despite initial success against Cumberland's left flank, the Jacobite lines broke, leading to a rout and heavy casualties. Government forces pursued and killed many survivors, effectively crushing the rebellion.

The Aftermath

Repression and Legal Changes

Following Culloden, the British government implemented harsh measures to suppress Jacobitism and prevent future uprisings. This included widespread searches for rebels, confiscation of property, and trials for treason. The Heritable Jurisdictions (Scotland) Act 1746 dismantled the feudal power of clan chiefs, and the Act of Proscription outlawed Highland dress, aiming to break the traditional clan system.

Pardons and Exile

While many Jacobites faced execution or transportation, a General Pardon Act in 1746 released most prisoners. However, key leaders like Lord George Murray and the Duke of Perth were excluded and died in exile. Charles Edward Stuart himself escaped to France, but his relationship with his supporters was irrevocably damaged, and he never successfully reignited the cause.

Infrastructure and Control

To better control the Highlands and prevent future unrest, the British government invested in infrastructure. The military road network was completed, and William Roy conducted the first comprehensive survey of the region. These efforts aimed to integrate the Highlands more firmly into the United Kingdom and facilitate troop movements.

Enduring Legacy

Romanticism and National Identity

The '45 rising, particularly the figure of Bonnie Prince Charlie, became deeply romanticized in literature and art. Writers like Sir Walter Scott shaped a narrative that, while often overlooking the political complexities, contributed to a shared Scottish cultural identity. This romanticized view helped transform the perception of Highlanders from "wild men" to a noble warrior race.

Cultural Revival

The post-1745 era saw an upsurge in Scottish cultural expression, including Gaelic literature and the popularization of Highland traditions like tartan and Highland Games. These elements, often detached from their Jacobite origins, became symbols of Scottish heritage within the broader context of the United Kingdom.

The End of a Dynasty

The failure of the 1745 rising marked the definitive end of the Stuart dynasty's serious claim to the British throne. Charles Edward Stuart died in Rome in 1788, a disillusioned figure. The rebellion's ultimate failure solidified the Hanoverian monarchy and the Union, while its memory continued to resonate in Scottish culture and identity.

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References

Scots made up less than five per cent of the Jacobite court in 1696 and 1709: by far the largest element were English, followed by Irish and French.

Should the invasion fail, it was also a convenient spot to assemble troops for a campaign in the Austrian Netherlands

A full list of references for this article are available at the Jacobite rising of 1745 Wikipedia page

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This is not historical advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research or consultation. Always refer to primary sources and scholarly works for in-depth understanding. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

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The '45: A Jacobite Chronicle

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Historical Context 📜

👑 The Stuart Succession Crisis

🌍 Shifting Alliances and French Ambitions

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Scottish Discontent and the Union

The '45 Campaign ⚔️

🚀 Launching the Rebellion

➡️ The March South

⚖️ Internal Divisions and Strategy

Key Engagements 🛡️

💥 Prestonpans (September 1745)

❄️ Clifton Moor Skirmish (December 1745)

🔥 Falkirk Muir (January 1746)

💀 Culloden (April 1746)

The Aftermath ⚖️

⛓️ Repression and Legal Changes

🕊️ Pardons and Exile

🗺️ Infrastructure and Control

Enduring Legacy 🌟

📖 Romanticism and National Identity

🎶 Cultural Revival

📉 The End of a Dynasty

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Historical Context

The Stuart Succession Crisis

Shifting Alliances and French Ambitions

Scottish Discontent and the Union

The '45 Campaign

Launching the Rebellion

The March South

Internal Divisions and Strategy

Key Engagements

Prestonpans (September 1745)

Clifton Moor Skirmish (December 1745)

Falkirk Muir (January 1746)

Culloden (April 1746)

The Aftermath

Repression and Legal Changes

Pardons and Exile

Infrastructure and Control

Enduring Legacy

Romanticism and National Identity

Cultural Revival

The End of a Dynasty

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice