Charles Edward Stuart's Forces Reach Derby

December 4th, 1745

December 4th, 1745

Charles Edward Stuart's Forces Reach Derby
How Long Ago?

279 years, 3 months, 11 days ago

Location

Derby, England

Category

Military & Warfare

War/Conflict

Second Jacobite Rising

People
  • Charles Edward Stuart
  • James Francis Edward Stuart
  • John Murray
Links & References
Tags

Charles Edward Stuart's Forces Reach Derby

Charles Edward Stuart's army, also known as the Jacobites, reached Derby, marking the furthest point of their advance during the Second Jacobite Rising. This significant movement occurred as they sought to claim the British throne for the exiled House of Stuart. The army's arrival in Derby on this occasion created great anticipation and anxiety across England, reflecting the tensions of the time between the Jacobite supporters and the Hanoverian government.

Charles's army advanced over 9,000 troops.

The march into England sparked hopes of a rebellion.

Local support in Derby was largely absent.

The retreat signaled a turning point in the Rising.

What Happened?

In December 1745, Charles Edward Stuart, also known as Bonnie Prince Charlie, and his Jacobite army advanced into England, reaching Derby. This marked a pivotal moment in the Second Jacobite Rising, as it represented the farthest south that the Jacobite forces had penetrated. Initially, their campaign began in Scotland, gaining momentum with the support of loyalist Highland clans. The march into England was characterized by a mixture of enthusiasm and apprehension among the troops and supporters alike. Upon reaching Derby, the Jacobite army, numbering around 9,000, captured the city with little resistance, which raised hopes among their supporters for a wider rebellion against George II and the Hanoverian rule.

However, the optimism was tempered by the realization that the local populace was largely indifferent or even hostile towards the Jacobite cause. The uncertainty surrounding the army's next move became palpable. Ultimately, rather than pressing further into England toward London, the leadership decided to retreat, a decision influenced by logistical challenges and decreasing support. This retreat began shortly after Christmas, marking a turning point in the campaign, and illustrating the complexities of their aspirations to reclaim the British throne.

The event at Derby not only affected the course of the Jacobite campaign but also reflected the broader sentiment of loyalties within England. This moment in Derby became a symbol of both aspiration and missed opportunity, highlighting the precarious balance of power during this volatile period. The Jacobite forces’ advance would eventually lead to their defeat at the Battle of Culloden in 1746, ending the hope for the restoration of the Stuart dynasty to the British throne.

Why Does it Matter?

The reach of Charles Edward Stuart's army to Derby is significant as it demonstrated the tangible threat the Jacobites posed to the Hanoverian monarchy. This advance galvanized both support for the Jacobite cause and a counter-response from the government. The eventual retreat from Derby underscored the limitations of the Jacobite movement, ultimately shaping the political landscape of Britain.

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