John Byng

John Byng (October 29, 1704 – March 14, 1757), was a former Commodore-Governor of Newfoundland and Admiral of the British Royal Navy. He is chiefly noted for having been controversially court-martialled and executed for breach of the Articles of War at the start of the Seven Years' War.

Early life and career

John Byng was born in Bedfordshire, England, the fourth son of George Byng, 1st Viscount Torrington.

Related Topics:
Bedfordshire - England - George Byng, 1st Viscount Torrington

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

By the time John enlisted in the Royal Navy in 1718, aged 14, his father George was already a well-established Admiral with a rising and stellar career, who ever since supporting William III in his successful bid to be crowned King of England in 1689 had seen his stature and fortune grow. A highly-skilled naval commander, he won distinction in a series of battles and was held in great esteem by the reigning monarchies he served under. In 1721 he was rewarded by King George I of Great Britain with a viscountcy, and created the 1st. Viscount Torrington.

Related Topics:
1718 - William III - King of England - 1689 - 1721 - George I of Great Britain - Viscountcy - Viscount Torrington

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

As things would later turn out, the careers of father and son could hardly have ended up more differently.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Like most of the younger sons of British nobility, the young John Byng would have to earn his keep since his father's titles and estates would ordinarily pass on only to the eldest. However, with such an illustrious naval father, Byng's rapid promotions through the service most likely owed something to his influence.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Byng's youth and early career were served out on a series of Mediterranean postings. In 1723 at the age of 19 he was made a Lieutenant, and at the age of 23 rose to become Captain, of HMS Gibraltar. His Mediterranean service continued without much incident or action until 1739.

Related Topics:
Mediterranean - 1723 - Lieutenant - Captain - HMS ''Gibraltar'' - 1739

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~