Alexander Cannon

Alexander Cannon or Canan (fl. late 17th century) was a colonel, and subsequently a major-general, in the Jacobite forces in Scotland in the period immediately after the Glorious Revolution.

Career

A professional soldier, a Lowland Scot originating from Galloway, he had spent most of his career with the Anglo-Dutch brigade.^[1] Cannon and his regiment were sent to England in the summer of 1685 to assist in putting down the Monmouth Rebellion, and he was made colonel of the King's Own Regiment of Light Dragoons in August 1687.^[2] He remained loyal at the Glorious Revolution and was relieved of his command, later appearing with Jacobite forces in Ireland.

Role in First Jacobite Rising

Cannon arrived from Ireland with 300 infantry, intended to reinforce the largely Highland army of John Graham, 1st Viscount of Dundee. However after Dundee was killed in the moment of victory at the Battle of Killiecrankie, Cannon assumed command of the entire Jacobite army.

Cannon was unable to speak Gaelic, the language of many of the Highland soldiers.^[3] He was also reputed to spend much of his time on campaign drinking with Lord Dunfermline, and did not command the respect that Dundee had.^[4]

Cannon and the Jacobite army were defeated at the Battle of Dunkeld. Overall command was then passed to Major-General Thomas Buchan, but a Jacobite force under both men was subsequently defeated at the Battle of Cromdale. Cannon was said to have escaped the rout in only his shirt.

Later life

Cannon, along with Buchan, was eventually issued with a pass to leave Scotland, landing at Le Havre in April 1692.^[5]

References

1. Childs, J. The Williamite Wars in Ireland, 2007, pp.126-7.
2. Cannon, R. Historical Record of the Third or Kings Own Regiment of Light Dragoons, 2015
3. Glozier, Scottish Soldiers in France in the Reign of the Sun King, p.241
4. Milne, Scottish Culture and Traditions, 2010, p.116
5. Roberts, Clan, King and Covenant, 2000, p.240