STUART, James
(1741-1815) - General

Scottish. Professional soldier.
Born: 2 March 1741. Third son of John Stuart of Blairhall, Perthshire, and Anne, daughter of Francis, Earl of Murray. Educated in Scotland, joined the army. 1775-1778 fought in the American War of Independence attaining the rank of Major in the 78th Regiment of Foot 1780-1783. Served in India 1780-1805: fought in 2nd Mysore War (1780-1783), present in 1782 at the siege of Cuddalore; during 3rd Mysore War (1790-1792), at Dindigul, Palqhaut and Seringapatam; promoted to Colonel in 1792 and travelled to Britain. Returned to Madras in 1794.

Appointed Major-General in 1795 and led British military expedition to Ceylon, and in 1796 secured the surrender of all Dutch forces throughout the island; appointed Commander-in-Chief at Madras in 1796; gazetted as Colonel of the 78th Regiment in 1798; during 4th Mysore War (1799), commanded the Bombay Army on the march from the Malabar Coast through Coorg (Kodagu) to Mysore, fought forces of Tipu Sultan at Sedaseer and Seringapatam; appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Madras Army in 1801; attained rank of Lieutenant-General in 1802; fought in the 2nd Mahratta War (1803-1805).

Returned to Britain in 1805 due to bad health. Promoted to General in 1812.

Died (without issue): at Berkeley Square, London, on 29 April 1815.

Sources:
Dictionary of National Biography Vol.XIX p.89.

Riddick, John F. Who Was Who in British India Westport, Conn: Greenwood Press, 1998 p.353.

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