earls and dukes of Ormonde
Irish nobles
Quick Summary
The Earls and Dukes of Ormonde were prominent Anglo-Irish nobles from the Butler family, who played significant roles in Irish history.
- Piers Butler, 8th Earl of Ormonde (c. 1467–1539) revived the family's influence by claiming the earldom and estates, fighting for the English, and serving as lord deputy of Ireland. He was later made Earl of Ossory and then Earl of Ormonde again.1
- Thomas Butler, 10th Earl of Ormonde (1531/32–1614) was a Protestant nobleman who supported the English crown in rebellions and suppressed uprisings in Munster and elsewhere. He also pursued a personal feud with the Fitzgeralds.2
- James Butler, 12th Earl and 1st Duke of Ormonde (1610–1688) was a key figure representing English royal authority in Ireland through periods of rebellion and civil war. He was a Protestant who fought for the royalists but ultimately saw Ireland conquered by Oliver Cromwell.3
The family's influence extended through generations, with later Earls and Dukes continuing to shape political and military events in Ireland.23
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