William Russell, 1st Baron Russell of Thornhaugh
|
|
William Russell, 1st Baron Russell of Thornhaugh (c. 1558–1613) was a English military leader.
Russell was a younger son of the 2nd Earl of Bedford. Due to conflicting records, Russell's birthdate is uncertain. Some evidence indicates he was born as early as 1553; others as late as 1562.
Russell began his active military career serving in the Netherlands. He was noted for maintaining an effective fighting force under difficult circumstances.
In 1594, Russell was appointed Lord Deputy of Ireland. Ireland was in a state of uprising and there were two opinions on how to bring peace. One faction wanted to negotiate with the Irish leaders. The other faction, which included Russell, favored ending the uprising with military force. The negotiaters eventually prevailed. Russell was recalled from Ireland in 1597.
In 1599, Russell was named as leader of the forces defending western England in anticipation of a Spanish invasion. However, the invasion plans were thwarted.
Russell, having lost influence in the royal court, retired to his estates. He died on August 9, 1613.
| Preceded by: William Fitzwilliams | Lord Deputy of Ireland 1594–1597 | Succeeded by: The Lord Strabolgi and Burgh |