Arthur Wellesley

Duke of Wellington Arthur Wellesley

Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington
General Information
Full Name: Arthur Wellesley Titles: 1st Duke of Wellington, Field Marshal, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Nickname: The Iron Duke Gender: Male Age: 85 (Born 1 May 1769, Died 14 September 1852) Place of Birth: [Dublin, Ireland](location) Place of Death: [Walmer Castle, Kent, England](location) Species: Human Nationality: Anglo-Irish
Appearance
Height: 5'9" (175 cm) Weight: Average Build: Slim and athletic Eye Color: Blue Hair Color: Dark brown, later grey Distinctive Features: Aquiline nose, high cheekbones, piercing gaze
Personality
Traits: Determined, disciplined, strategic, reserved Hobbies: Horse riding, hunting, playing the violin Strengths: Military genius, political acumen, strong leadership Weaknesses: Known for his aloofness, sometimes overly strict
Biography
Birth and Early Life: Arthur Wellesley was born on 1 May 1769 in [Dublin, Ireland](location), into the Anglo-Irish aristocracy. He was the third of five surviving children. Wellesley attended [Eton College](location) and later enrolled at the [French Royal Academy of Equitation](location) in Angers, France, where he developed his equestrian skills and military acumen.
Military Career: Wellesley began his military career in the British Army, serving in various capacities in [India](location) and [Europe](location). He rose to prominence during the [Peninsular War](conflict) against Napoleon’s forces in Spain and Portugal. His strategic brilliance and decisive victories earned him the title of Duke of Wellington. His most famous achievement was his defeat of [Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo](event) in 1815, solidifying his reputation as one of history's greatest military leaders.
Political Career: After his military success, Wellesley entered politics, serving twice as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (1828-1830 and 1834). He was a member of the Tory party and is noted for his conservative policies. During his tenure, he was involved in the [Catholic Emancipation Act of 1829](law), which granted civil rights to Catholics in the UK.
Later Life and Death: Wellesley continued to serve in various public roles, including as [Commander-in-Chief of the British Army](position), until his death. He passed away peacefully at [Walmer Castle](location) on 14 September 1852 and was buried with full state honors at [St. Paul's Cathedral](location) in London.
Relationships
Family:

Father: [Garret Wesley, 1st Earl of Mornington](character)

Mother: [Anne Hill-Trevor, Countess of Mornington](character)

Siblings: [Richard Wellesley, 1st Marquess Wellesley](character) (brother), and other siblings

Marriage:

Spouse: [Catherine "Kitty" Pakenham](character) (married in 1806)

Children: [Arthur Richard Wellesley](character) (son), [Charles Wellesley](character) (son)

Friends and Allies:

[Sir John Moore](character) (military colleague)

[Sir Thomas Picton](character) (military colleague)

[Lord Castlereagh](character) (political ally)

Rivals and Enemies:

[Napoleon Bonaparte](character) (military adversary)

[Marshal Ney](character) (French marshal at Waterloo)

Various political opponents during his tenure as Prime Minister

Public Agenda
Arthur Wellesley sought to maintain British dominance in Europe through military strength and conservative political policies. He was committed to preserving the British aristocracy and was cautious about reforms that threatened the established order.
Assets
Properties:

[Apsley House](location) (London residence)

[Stratfield Saye House](location) (Hampshire estate)

[Walmer Castle](location) (Kent residence)

Wealth: Wellesley was granted significant wealth through his military victories and political appointments. His estates and titles provided substantial income.
Equipment:

Military uniforms and regalia

Personal weapons, including his famous sword from the [Battle of Waterloo](event)

Numerous military awards and decorations

Cultural Impact
Arthur Wellesley remains a celebrated figure in British history, known for his military brilliance and leadership. His legacy is commemorated through various statues, place names, and historical studies. The phrase "The Iron Duke" reflects his steadfast character and enduring influence.
Quotes

"The battle of Waterloo was won on the playing fields of Eton." – Reflecting on the importance of discipline and training.

"Nothing except a battle lost can be half so melancholy as a battle won." – On the human cost of warfare.

Current Location

London

Church/Cult

Church of England

Date of Birth

1st of May, 1769

Year of Birth

1769 BCE

Birthplace

Dublin, Ireland

Current Residence

London

Belief/Deity

Anglican

Aligned Organization

Church of England