Lachlan Macquarie

Colonel Lachlan Macquarie (31 January, 1762–1 July, 1824), British military officer and colonial administrator, served as Governor of New South Wales from 1810 to 1821 and had a leading role in the social, economic and architectural development of that colony. Historians assess his influence on the transition of New South Wales from a penal colony to a free settlement as being crucial to the shaping of Australian society.

Related Topics:
31 January - 1762 - 1 July - 1824 - British - Governor of New South Wales - 1810 - 1821 - Australia

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Lachlan Macquarie was born in the Isle of Mull in the Hebrides islands of Scotland. He joined the Army in 1776 and served in North America, India and Egypt. After serving for 12 years as a Captain he considered leaving the Army, but his fortunes changed in 1808 when he was appointed Governor of New South Wales. He was given a mandate to restore government and discipline in the colony following the Rum Rebellion against Governor William Bligh. The British government decided to reverse its practice of appointing naval officers as Governor and appoint an army commander on the hope that he could secure the co-operation of the unruly New South Wales Corps.

Related Topics:
Isle of Mull - Hebrides - Scotland - 1776 - North America - India - Egypt - 1808 - New South Wales - Rum Rebellion - William Bligh - New South Wales Corps

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