Ireton

Ireton, HENRY, an English general of the period of the Commonwealth, was the eldest son of German Ireton, of Attenborough, Nottingham, and was born in 1611. He studied at Oxford and at the Middle Temple, London, and on the breaking out of the Civil War offered his services to the parliament. His connection with Cromwell, whose daughter Bridget he married in 1646, greatly advanced his interests. At Naseby he was taken prisoner by Rupert, but Cromwell's charge set him at liberty. Ireton was one of the most implacable enemies of the king, and signed the warrant for his execution. He accompanied Cromwell to Ireland, and in 1650 became lord-deputy. On 26th November 1651 he died of the plague before the walls of Limerick. From Westminster Abbey his remains were transferred at the Restoration to Tyburn.