Search the Collection
James Butler, 2nd Duke of Ormonde (1665-1745), Soldier and Jacobite
Sitter in 26 portraits
A Tory statesman holding important military office and political positions during the reigns of William and Mary and Queen Anne, Ormond was a key figure in helping the exiled Jacobite court achieve their restoration at Queen Anne's death. On his accession, George I effectively banned the Tory party from government. Having lost his position, Ormond joined with several senior Tories to plot the overthrow of the Hanoverians. Accused of supporting the Jacobite uprising of 1715, he was impeached for high treason and fled to France forfeiting his titles and estates. Appointed Captain-General by James Francis Edward Stuart, the 'Old Pretender', he led unsuccessful Spanish attempts to invade England in 1719 and 1722.