Henry Fane (British Army officer)

Henry Fane (1778 – 11 March 1840) was a British Army officer and politician. He rose to the rank of general and served with distinction in the Peninsular War and at the Battle of Waterloo.

Early Life and Career:

Fane was born into a prominent aristocratic family. He entered the British Army as a cornet in the 6th Dragoon Guards in 1792. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a lieutenant in 1793, a captain in 1795, and a major in 1796.

Service in the Peninsular War:

Fane served with distinction in the Peninsular War under the Duke of Wellington. He commanded a brigade of cavalry, participating in several key battles, including the Battle of Talavera (1809), where his brigade played a crucial role in repelling a French attack. He was also present at the Battle of Bussaco (1810) and the Battle of Fuentes de Onoro (1811). He was promoted to major-general in 1813.

Waterloo and Later Career:

At the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, Fane commanded the 2nd Brigade of Heavy Cavalry, comprising the 1st (Royal) Dragoons, 2nd Dragoons (Scots Greys), and 6th (Inniskilling) Dragoons. His brigade was heavily engaged in the famous charge of the Union Brigade, contributing to the defeat of Napoleon's forces.

Following Waterloo, Fane continued his military career. He was promoted to lieutenant-general in 1825 and general in 1838. He also served as Member of Parliament for Lyme Regis from 1816 to 1819, and for Sandwich from 1829 to 1830.

Death:

Henry Fane died on 11 March 1840.

Honours and Awards:

• Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB)
• Waterloo Medal
• Peninsular War Medal with clasps for Talavera, Bussaco, and Fuentes de Onoro.