Charles Cornwallis

Profession: General and Colonial Administrator

Nationality:

Biography: Charles Cornwallis was a British army officer and colonial administrator, best known for his role in the American Revolutionary War. Despite his military and administrative skill, he is most often remembered for his defeat at the Battle of Yorktown, an event that effectively ended the Revolutionary War.

Cornwallis served in various posts in the British Empire, but it was his role in the American Revolution that marked a significant period in his career. He initially gained success with victories in New York and New Jersey, but his campaign in the Southern colonies was fraught with difficulties. His strategic decision to move operations to Virginia resulted in the decisive siege at Yorktown, where Cornwallis was forced to surrender to American and French forces in 1781.

Despite the setback in America, Cornwallis continued to serve the British Empire in key roles. He was appointed Governor-General and commander-in-chief in India, where he reformed the East India Company's practices and successfully led military campaigns. Later, he served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, where he helped maintain the union with Great Britain during a period of significant unrest.

Notably, Cornwallis was also involved in the negotiation of the Treaty of Amiens in 1802, which temporarily halted hostilities between Britain and Napoleonic France.

Born: December 31, 1738
Birthplace: London, England, Great Britain
Star Sign: Capricorn

Died: October 5, 1805 (aged 66)
Cause of Death: Fever