Between 1689 and 1691, Ireland was a significant battleground in a major European conflict. Prior to this, in 1688, the unpopular English King, James II, was overthrown by his Dutch son-in-law, William of Orange, in what became known as the “Glorious Revolution”.

In 1690 and 1691, the armed forces of both men would come face to face on the battlefields of Ireland. This was one of the most destructive periods in Irish military history.

William of Orange had, by this time, proclaimed himself King and his supporters called themselves the ‘Williamites’. Having lost control of his kingdoms, James II would look to France for military help. A multi-national army was organised, and James’ military supporters soon became known as the ‘Jacobites’. Both men’s strong forces clashed on Irish soil for the first time at the Battle of the Boyne on July 1st, 1690. Following a decisive win over James for the Williamites, James’ army moved west and would hold the line at Athlone. This was a Jacobite stronghold on an important river crossing.

However, William was spurned at his first attempt to besiege the town, his initial attack quelled by the might of the Jacobite army and the Governor of Athlone, Colonel Richard Grace. Forced to retreat, King William’s forces under the command of Lieutenant-General James Douglas planned a much greater assault on Athlone for the following summer.

In June 1691, the Great Siege of Athlone took place. General Godard Van Reede Van Ginkel was now in command of a strong Williamite force.