John Blackader was a devout Christian who served with the Cameronians from 1689 to 1711. His diary provides a unique perspective on Army life during this period.
The British Army has played a central role in the long history of conflict and co-operation between Britain and Ireland. Here we explore some of the key moments in this difficult but fascinating story.
Fought on 1 July 1690 between the forces of the deposed King James II and his successor, King William III, the Battle of the Boyne was the largest military engagement ever to take place on Irish soil.
Between 1689 and 1697, British soldiers joined a European alliance against French expansionism. At the same time, extensive fighting took place in Scotland and Ireland between the supporters of King William III and the deposed James II.
The Army played an important role in the downfall of King James II and his replacement by William of Orange in 1688. This ‘Glorious Revolution’ restricted royal power and had a profound impact on the long-term future of the British Army.
The Jacobites, supporters of King James II and his descendants, sought to restore the House of Stuart to the British throne. In 1715, 1719 and 1745 they tried to overthrow the ruling Hanoverian Royal Family.
The Battle of Culloden, the climax of the Jacobite Rising of 1745, was fought near Inverness on 16 April 1746. It finally settled a contest for the British monarchy that had lasted almost 60 years.
Whether participating in ceremonial events, visiting deployed troops, operating as regimental figureheads or personally serving in the Army, members of the Royal Family provide a constant and visible link between soldiers and their sovereign.
