Leslie, Alexander
| Dates | 1640s | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | England | ||
| Vocation | Army officer | ||
| Place of Birth | Scotland | ||
| Marriage | Agnes Renton | ||
| Issue | 7 children | ||
| Place of birth | Source | Oxford Dictionary of National Biography; J.B. Paul, The Scots Peerage: A History of the Noble Families of Scotland, 9 vols (Edinburgh, 1904-1914), v, 372-9 |
First earl of Leven. Illegitimate son of George Leslie. Pursued military service in the Netherlands and Swedish Service. Met the Marquess of Hamilton served in military together. When Hamilton returned to Scotland, Leslie kept in touch, treating him as a patron. Initially loyal to Charles I but a visit to Scotland in the 1630s changes his viewpoint and led to covenanting sympathies. Returned to Scotland and joined covenanters, participating in the first bishops' war. Marched into England in 1640. Spent time centered around Newcastle on military campaign before being sent to Ireland to help quell the Irish Catholic Rising (1641). Recalled to Scotland at outbreak of English civil war. Fought around Newcastle and York and was present at the battle of Marston Moor. 1650s retired from active service and returned to Scotland. Died at Balgonie 1661.
