Who was James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde, and what were his primary roles?

James FitzJames Butler, the 2nd Duke of Ormonde, was an Irish statesman and soldier who lived from 29 April 1665 to 16 September 1745. He held significant military and political positions, including serving twice as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, and was recognized with honors such as Knight of the Order of the Garter (KG) and Privy Councillor (PC).

When and where was James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde, born?

James Butler, the 2nd Duke of Ormonde, was born on 29 April 1665 at Dublin Castle in Ireland.

Who were the parents of the 2nd Duke of Ormonde, and what was their religious affiliation?

His parents were Thomas Butler, the 6th Earl of Ossory, and Emilia van Nassau-Beverweerd. Both of his parents were Protestant.

What is the historical lineage of the Butler dynasty to which James Butler belonged?

The Butler dynasty, to which James Butler belonged, was of Old English descent and traced its origins back to Theobald Walter, who was appointed Chief Butler of Ireland by King Henry II in 1177, establishing a long-standing connection to that office.

How did James Butler's upbringing differ from some of his extended family members?

James Butler was raised as a Protestant, similar to his grandfather, the 1st Duke of Ormond. This contrasted with some members of his extended Butler family who maintained their adherence to Roman Catholicism.

Where did James Butler receive his education?

James Butler received his education in France and later attended Christ Church, Oxford. He was also admitted to the Middle Temple, a professional association for barristers in London.

When did James Butler inherit the title of Duke of Ormonde?

James Butler succeeded his grandfather as the 2nd Duke of Ormonde on 21 July 1688.

What were the major military conflicts James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde, participated in?

The Duke of Ormonde participated in several significant military campaigns, including the Monmouth Rebellion, the Williamite War in Ireland, the Nine Years' War, and the War of the Spanish Succession. He was also associated with the Jacobite rising of 1715.

Which specific battles did the Duke of Ormonde fight in during the War of the Spanish Succession?

During the War of the Spanish Succession, the Duke of Ormonde fought in the Battle of Cádiz in August 1702 and the Battle of Vigo Bay in October 1702.

What military commands did the Duke of Ormonde hold under Queen Anne?

Under Queen Anne, he served as Commander of the land forces cooperating with Sir George Rooke in Spain. Later, he was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Forces in January 1712 and Captain-General in February 1712.

How did the Duke of Ormonde's actions in the Netherlands in 1712 impact the ongoing war?

In 1712, following secret instructions from the British ministry, Ormonde withdrew British troops from supporting allies like Prince Eugene in the Netherlands, which affected operations such as the siege of Quesnoy and led to diplomatic friction.

During which periods did the Duke of Ormonde serve as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland?

James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde, served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland during two distinct periods: from 19 February 1703 to 30 April 1707, and again from 26 October 1710 to 22 September 1713.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's involvement in the Guiscard affair?

In 1711, during a Privy Council meeting, Antoine de Guiscard attempted to assassinate Robert Harley. Ormonde was among the councillors who intervened, stabbing Guiscard in defense of Harley.

What led to the Duke of Ormonde's impeachment and subsequent exile?

The Duke of Ormonde was impeached for high treason in 1715, accused of supporting the Jacobite rising. He chose to flee to France rather than face trial, which resulted in his attainder and forfeiture of his titles and estates.

What were the legal consequences of the Duke of Ormonde's attainder?

Following his attainder by the Attainder of Duke of Ormonde Act 1714, his estate was forfeited to the Crown, and his hereditary honours were extinguished.

Where did the Duke of Ormonde reside during his exile?

After fleeing England in August 1715, the Duke of Ormonde initially stayed in Paris, then moved to Spain, and eventually settled in Avignon in 1732, where he lived until his death.

When and where did James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde, die?

He died in exile in Avignon on 16 September 1745, at the age of 80.

Who was the first wife of the 2nd Duke of Ormonde, and what children did they have?

His first wife was Lady Anne Hyde, whom he married in 1682. They had one daughter, Mary, who died in infancy in 1688.

Who was the second wife of the 2nd Duke of Ormonde, and what children resulted from this marriage?

He married Lady Mary Somerset in 1685. They had a son, Thomas, who died young, and two daughters, Elizabeth and Mary, who survived into adulthood.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's role in the Jacobite rising of 1715?

Although he fled the country before the rising, the Duke of Ormonde was accused of supporting the Jacobite cause, with rebels reportedly shouting his name during the uprising.

What was the outcome of the 1719 Spanish and Jacobite invasion plan involving the Duke of Ormonde?

The Duke of Ormonde was involved in a plan for a Spanish and Jacobite invasion of England in 1719. However, the invasion fleet was ultimately dispersed by a severe storm in the Bay of Biscay.

What was the purpose of the County Palatine of Tipperary Act 1715?

This act, passed by the Irish Parliament, aimed to extinguish the special regalities and liberties of the County Palatine of Tipperary, vest the Duke of Ormonde's estate in the Crown, and offer a reward for his capture if he attempted to land in Ireland.

How was the Duke of Ormonde's estate handled after his attainder?

Following his attainder, his estate was forfeited. In 1721, an Act of the British Parliament enabled his brother, Charles Butler, 1st Earl of Arran, to purchase the estate.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's connection to Cardinal Alberoni?

While residing in Spain during his exile, the Duke of Ormonde engaged in discussions with Cardinal Alberoni, a prominent figure in Spanish politics who was involved in Jacobite affairs.

What were the principal honorific titles held by James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde?

James Butler held the principal honorific titles of Duke of Ormonde, was a Knight of the Order of the Garter (KG), and served as a Privy Councillor (PC).

How did the Duke of Ormonde's waistcoat contribute to the survival of Robert Harley during the Guiscard affair?

During the assassination attempt by Guiscard, Robert Harley's heavy gold brocade waistcoat proved crucial as the penknife became lodged in its fabric, preventing a fatal injury.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's initial stance on the Glorious Revolution of 1688?

Initially, the Duke of Ormonde opposed the deposition of James II, voting against the motions to declare William and Mary as monarchs and against the declaration of James II's abdication.

What is the significance of the Butler family's name in relation to their historical role?

The Butler family name is derived from the hereditary office of Chief Butler of Ireland, a position granted to their ancestor, Theobald Walter, by King Henry II, linking the family name directly to this significant historical role.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's specific role at the Battle of the Boyne?

The Duke of Ormonde commanded the Queen's Troop of Horse Guards during the Battle of the Boyne, which took place in July 1690.

On what date was the Duke of Ormonde appointed a Knight of the Garter?

The Duke of Ormonde was appointed a Knight of the Order of the Garter on 28 September 1688.

What happened to the Duke of Ormonde's Garter banner after his attainder?

Following his attainder for treason, the Duke of Ormonde's banner, which represented his status as a Knight of the Garter, was removed from its place in St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle.

Who was Lady Mary Somerset, and what was her connection to the Duke of Ormonde?

Lady Mary Somerset was the second wife of James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde, whom he married in 1685. She also served as a lady of the bedchamber to Queen Anne.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's relationship with his brother, Charles Butler?

Charles Butler, who became the de jure 3rd Duke of Ormonde after his elder brother's attainder, played a role in managing the family's affairs by purchasing the estate in 1721.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's title within the Scottish peerage?

In the Scottish peerage, James Butler held the title of Lord Dingwall, which, like his other titles, was forfeited following his attainder.

What were the Duke of Ormonde's key titles within the Irish peerage?

Within the Irish peerage, James Butler was the 7th Earl of Ossory, a title he inherited in 1680, and he also held the Dukedom of Ormonde.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's overall role during the War of the Spanish Succession?

During the War of the Spanish Succession, he served as a commander of British land forces in Spain and later as the Captain-General of British troops in the Netherlands, influencing the war's progression through his command.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's stance on the succession of William and Mary?

The Duke of Ormonde initially opposed the succession of William and Mary, voting against their ascension to the throne and against the declaration of James II's abdication in 1689.

What does the family tree of James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde, illustrate?

The family tree illustrates his lineage, tracing his descent from the Butler dynasty and the House of Nassau, and shows his relationships with his parents, siblings, and children, providing a visual representation of his family connections.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's involvement in the Monmouth Rebellion?

He participated in the suppression of the Monmouth Rebellion, serving against the Duke of Monmouth at the Battle of Sedgemoor in July 1685.

What military rank did the Duke of Ormonde achieve in 1694?

In 1694, the Duke of Ormonde was promoted to the rank of lieutenant-general.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's role in the Nine Years' War?

During the Nine Years' War, he served on the continent under William of Orange, participating in significant battles such as Steenkerque and Landen.

What position did the Duke of Ormonde hold as Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports?

He held the office of Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports from 1712 to 1715.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's role as Lord High Constable of England?

The Duke of Ormonde held the ceremonial office of Lord High Constable of England in 1689.

For how long did the Duke of Ormonde serve as Lord Lieutenant of Somerset?

He served as the Lord Lieutenant of Somerset from 1691 until 1714.

For how long did the Duke of Ormonde serve as Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk?

He served as the Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk from 1713 to 1714.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's connection to Kilkenny Castle?

His cousin, Piers Butler, 3rd Viscount Galmoye, maintained barrels of gunpowder at Kilkenny Castle, indicating a familial connection to the historic site.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's relationship with his father, Thomas Butler?

His father, Thomas Butler, was known as Lord Ossory. Upon his death in 1680, James Butler inherited the titles of Baron Butler and 7th Earl of Ossory.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's relationship with his mother, Emilia van Nassau-Beverweerd?

His mother, Emilia van Nassau-Beverweerd, was of Dutch origin and belonged to a cadet branch of the prominent House of Nassau.

What was the Duke of Ormonde's role in the Jacobite rising of 1719?

He was involved in a plan for a Spanish and Jacobite invasion of England in 1719, intended to place James Francis Edward Stuart on the throne, but the invasion fleet was wrecked by a storm.

James Butler 2nd Duke Of Ormonde Wiki: James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde: A Chronicle of Loyalty, Exile, and Command

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Origins and Heritage

Noble Lineage

James Butler, the 2nd Duke of Ormonde, was born on 29 April 1665, within the historic walls of Dublin Castle. He hailed from the distinguished Butler dynasty, an Old English family with deep roots in Ireland tracing back to Theobald Walter, appointed Chief Butler of Ireland by King Henry II in 1177.^[2] James was the second but eldest surviving son of Thomas Butler, Earl of Ossory, and Emilia van Nassau-Beverweerd, who was descended from the House of Nassau.^[1] Both his parents adhered to the Protestant faith, distinguishing them from many Catholic relatives.^[3]

Early Titles

Upon the premature death of his father, Thomas Butler, in 1680, James inherited the titles Baron Butler in the English peerage and the 7th Earl of Ossory in the Irish peerage.^[9] He was admitted to the Middle Temple in 1683, indicating a formal education in law and governance.^[10] His lineage placed him as the heir apparent to his grandfather, the 1st Duke of Ormond, though he predeceased his grandfather and thus never formally inherited the ducal title during his grandfather's lifetime.

Education

His Grace received his formative education in France before continuing his studies at Christ Church, Oxford.^[8] This dual exposure provided him with both continental sophistication and the academic rigor characteristic of English higher education during the period.

Navigating Political Tides

Loyalty and Allegiance

In the tumultuous period following the accession of James II, Ormonde initially voted against the deposition of the King and the elevation of William of Orange and Mary.^[16] However, he subsequently aligned himself with William's cause, receiving command of the Queen's Troop of Horse Guards in April 1689.^[11] He was appointed Lord Lieutenant of Somerset in February 1691.^[19]

Academic Patronage

In 1688, Ormonde assumed the significant roles of Chancellor of the University of Dublin and Chancellor of the University of Oxford.^[14]^[15] These positions underscore his standing and influence within the academic and intellectual circles of the era.

Early Military Engagements

His military career commenced with service against the Duke of Monmouth's rebellion in 1685.^[12] He later participated in the Nine Years' War, fighting at the Battles of Steenkerque (1692) and Landen (1693), where he was briefly captured and exchanged for the Duke of Berwick.^[20] He attained the rank of Lieutenant-General in 1694.^[21]

Command and Conflict

War of Spanish Succession

Upon Queen Anne's ascension in 1702, Ormonde commanded land forces alongside Sir George Rooke during the War of the Spanish Succession. He participated in the Battle of Cádiz (1702) and the Battle of Vigo Bay (1702).^[22]^[23] He served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland from 1703 to 1707 and again from 1710 to 1713.^[24]

Strategic Maneuvers in the Netherlands

In 1712, Ormonde was appointed Commander-in-Chief of British forces in the Netherlands. Tasked by the Tory ministry, he controversially followed secret orders to avoid active engagement with allied forces during the siege of Quesnoy, while securing Dunkirk for Britain.^[36]^[37]^[38] This strategic withdrawal significantly impacted the war's progression.

High Command

He held the prestigious position of Captain-General from 1711 to 1714 and served as Colonel of the 1st Regiment of Foot Guards.^[26]^[27]^[28] His influence extended to being Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports (1712-1715) and Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk (1713-1714).^[39]

Statesmanship and Influence

Lord Lieutenant of Ireland

Ormonde served twice as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, first from 1703 to 1707 under Queen Anne, succeeding the Earl of Rochester, and again from 1710 to 1713, following the Earl of Wharton.^[24] His tenure coincided with significant political developments in both Ireland and Great Britain.^[29]

Privy Councillor and Tory Support

Appointed a Privy Councillor, Ormonde was a key figure in the Tory administration. He played a role in the Privy Council during the notable Guiscard affair in 1711, where an assassination attempt was made on Robert Harley.^[31]^[32]^[33]^[34]

Property and Residence

In 1704, he leased and renovated a property in Richmond, London, known as Ormonde Lodge.^[25] His estates, particularly in Tipperary, Ireland, were later subject to forfeiture due to his political activities.

Jacobite Affiliations and Exile

Shifting Allegiances

Following Queen Anne's death and the accession of George I in 1714, Ormonde's political standing diminished. Stripped of his military and political offices, he was later impeached for high treason in connection with the Jacobite rising of 1715.^[40]^[43]^[44]

Flight to France

Choosing not to stand trial in England, Ormonde fled to France in August 1715.^[45]^[46] He was subsequently attainted by an Act of Parliament, leading to the forfeiture of his estates and the extinguishment of his honours.^[47] His banner as a Knight of the Garter was removed from St. George's Chapel, Windsor.^[49]

Spanish Involvement and Final Years

Ormonde later moved to Spain, engaging with Cardinal Alberoni in a Jacobite plan to invade England in 1719, though this venture was thwarted by a storm.^[53]^[54]^[55]^[56] He eventually settled in Avignon in 1732, where he lived in exile until his death on 16 September 1745, aged 80. His remains were returned to England for burial in Westminster Abbey.^[57]^[59]^[60]

Personal Life and Descendants

Marriages

Ormonde married twice. His first marriage was to Lady Anne Hyde in 1682, daughter of Laurence Hyde, Earl of Rochester. They had one daughter, Mary, who died young.^[61]^[62]^[63] Following Anne's death in 1685, he married Lady Mary Somerset, daughter of the Duke of Beaufort, in August 1685.^[64]^[65] Mary served as a lady of the bedchamber to Queen Anne.^[67]

Children

With his second wife, Mary Somerset, Ormonde had one son, Thomas (1686–1689), and two daughters who survived infancy: Elizabeth (1689–1750) and Mary (1690–1713).^[66] Their younger daughter Mary married John Ashburnham, 1st Earl of Ashburnham.^[68] As Ormonde's male line became extinct upon his death, his brother Charles Butler, Earl of Arran, became the de jure 3rd Duke.

Family Tree

The intricate lineage of the Dukes of Ormonde showcases generations of influence and connection within British and Irish nobility. The family tree illustrates the direct descent and key relationships relevant to James Butler's inheritance and status.

Family Tree Overview
Walter 11th Earl 1559–1633	Thomas Viscount Thurles d.v.p.*	Elizabeth Pointz 1587–1673
James 1st Duke 1610–1688	Elizabeth Preston 1615–1684	Richard B. of Kilcash d. 1701
Thomas 6th Earl Ossory 1633–1680 d.v.p.*	Emilia von Nassau 1635–1688	James 2nd Duke 1665–1745
Anne Hyde d. 1685	Mary Somerset 1664–1733	Charles 1st Earl Arran (de jure 3rd Duke) 1671–1758
*d.v.p. = predeceased his father (decessit vita patris)

Enduring Legacy

Political and Military Impact

James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde, left a significant mark on the political and military landscape of early 18th-century Britain and Ireland. His career spanned periods of intense conflict and shifting political alliances, reflecting the complex era in which he lived.^[40]

Titles and Forfeiture

While holding numerous prestigious titles, including Lord Lieutenant of Ireland and Chancellor of Oxford, his involvement with the Jacobite cause led to his attainder and forfeiture of honours.^[47] His estates were eventually purchased by his brother, Charles Butler.^[53]

Historical Recognition

His life and career have been documented in numerous historical works, including biographies and peerage histories, highlighting his complex role as a nobleman, soldier, and statesman navigating the turbulent politics of his time.^[30]^[69]

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "James Butler 2nd Duke Of Ormonde" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about james_butler_2nd_duke_of_ormonde while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

dmanisi

history of the free and hanseatic city of l übeck

calpers

ladakh

fasci d azione rivoluzionaria

hertford college oxford

chicana art

roman catholic archdiocese of panamá

high-valent iron

ceded and conquered provinces

References

Davies 2004, p. 226, right column. "The marriage produced eleven children ..."

Handley 2004, p. 164, left column. "in 1680 he immatriculated at Christ Church, Oxford."

Sturgess H.A.C. (1949). Register of Admissions of the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple. Vol. 1. London: Butterworth & Co. (Publishers) Ltd. p. 209.

Handley 2004, p. 164 right column, line22. "He was present at the battle of Sedgemoor on 6 July."

Taylor 1845, p. 218. "1688. James, Duke of Ormond, grandson to the former (outlawed in 1715"

Handley 2004, p. 165, left column, line 12. "... was present at the battle of the Boyne on 12 July."

Handley 2004, p. 165, left column, line 16. "... in February 1691 he was named lord lieutenant of Somerset."

Handley 2004, p. 165, left column, line 38. "He was raised to the rank of lieutenant-general in 1694."

Dunboyne 1968, pp. 16â17. "Butler Family Tree condensed"

Gregg 1980, p. 337, line . "Guiscard was run through by the Duke of Ormond and St. John ..."

Handley 2004, p. [rchive.org/details/isbn_0198613598/page/167/ 167, left column, line 53]. "... until 1732, when he settled in Avignon."

Burke & Burke 1915, p. 1550, right column, line 76. "... had a dau., Mary, d. 1688."

A full list of references for this article are available at the James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not historical or political advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research or consultation. Always refer to primary sources and consult with qualified historians or political analysts for specific needs. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Origins and Heritage 🌳

🏰 Noble Lineage

📜 Early Titles

🎓 Education

Navigating Political Tides ⚖️

👑 Loyalty and Allegiance

🏛️ Academic Patronage

⚔️ Early Military Engagements

Command and Conflict ⚔️

🇪🇸 War of Spanish Succession

🇳🇱 Strategic Maneuvers in the Netherlands

🇬🇧 High Command

Statesmanship and Influence 🏛️

🇮🇪 Lord Lieutenant of Ireland

🇬🇧 Privy Councillor and Tory Support

🏠 Property and Residence

Jacobite Affiliations and Exile ✈️

👑 Shifting Allegiances

🇫🇷 Flight to France

🇪🇸 Spanish Involvement and Final Years

Personal Life and Descendants 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

💍 Marriages

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Children

🌳 Family Tree

Enduring Legacy ⭐

⚖️ Political and Military Impact

🏛️ Titles and Forfeiture

📚 Historical Recognition

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Origins and Heritage

Noble Lineage

Early Titles

Education

Navigating Political Tides

Loyalty and Allegiance

Academic Patronage

Early Military Engagements

Command and Conflict

War of Spanish Succession

Strategic Maneuvers in the Netherlands

High Command

Statesmanship and Influence

Lord Lieutenant of Ireland

Privy Councillor and Tory Support

Property and Residence

Jacobite Affiliations and Exile

Shifting Allegiances

Flight to France

Spanish Involvement and Final Years

Personal Life and Descendants

Marriages

Children

Family Tree

Enduring Legacy

Political and Military Impact

Titles and Forfeiture

Historical Recognition

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice