Anglesey, Henry William Paget, 1st marquis of

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Anglesey, Henry William Paget, 1st marquis of (1768–1854). Soldier and administrator. In 1793 Anglesey raised the Staffordshire Volunteers (later the 80th Foot) and the following year served in Flanders under the duke of York. In 1808 he commanded the cavalry with distinction during the Corunna campaign. At Waterloo he showed undaunted bravery whilst directing the cavalry and horse artillery. He led the heavy brigade in the terrible charge which overwhelmed the comte d'Erlon's division. He lost a leg in the battle and was created marquis for his services. In 1828 Anglesey became lord-lieutenant of Ireland. He favoured catholic emancipation, an opinion which led to his recall in 1829 by Prime Minister Wellington. Anglesey was reappointed by Grey and faced opposition from O'Connell. In 1846 he was made a field marshal and master-general of ordnance. Anglesey is buried in the family vault at Lichfield cathedral.

Richard A. Smith

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