Charles Cornwallis, 1st Marquess Cornwallis

Description: (One of the Leading British Generals in the American War of Independence)

Charles Cornwallis, 1st Marquess Cornwallis was a British army general and statesman. He was also honored as “Earl Cornwallis,’’ and his military career began during the Seven Years' War. He subsequently led the British generals in the American War of Independence. Despite his several victories in the past, his major defeat at Yorktown, which was the final campaign of the American Revolution, is considered Cornwallis's biggest failure. His 1781 surrender to the American and French armies finally ended the long-run conflicts in North America. Nevertheless, the defeat did not end his career. More honors and responsibilities awaited Cornwallis in Britain. With the support of the successive British governments, Cornwallis was titled “Knight Companion” in 1786. He is also remembered for the reformative legislations that he passed, such as the ‘Cornwallis Code’ and the ‘Permanent Settlement,’ while serving as the commander-in-chief and the governor-general in India (1786–1793, 1805). He also suppressed the king of Mysore, Tipu Sultan. Cornwallis also served as the commander-in-chief and the governor-general of Ireland (1798–1801), where he played a crucial role in passing the ‘Act of Union.’ When Cornwallis was reappointed in India, he could not serve for long, as he died shortly after.

Overview

Birthday December 31, 1738 (Capricorn)
Born In England
Alternative names Viscount Brome, The Earl Cornwallis
City London, England
Died on October 5, 1805
Spouse/Ex- Jemima Tullekin Jones
Parents Charles Cornwallis, 1st Earl Cornwallis
Elizabeth Townshend
Children Charles, Mary
Relatives 4th Earl Cornwallis, James Cornwallis, Lady Charlotte Cornwallis, Lady Elizabeth Cornwallis, Lady Mary Cornwallis, William Cornwallis
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