A bit of an Indian theme today. Think this is who Outram is:
Born in Derbyshire in 1803, Sir James Outram achieved fame as the defender of Lucknow in the Indian Mutiny. He was also a big game hunter (see the Lion Hunt group if you're into that kind of thing yourself). At the age of 16 he entered the Bombay Army. He served with distinction during the First Afghan War, at one point making a long journey across dangerous territory in disguise. A skilled political agent, he showed tact and understanding of local politics and was often opposed to Sir Charles Napier's harsher policies. He did not tolerate corruption and was removed from the Bombay Army for exposing official corruption. Recalled when the Mutiny broke out, he was given the command of two divisions with which he joined Sir Henry Havelock at Cawnpore, marching on to Lucknow. He held the city until the relief force arrived and defended a walled park, the Alambagh, against severe odds until the city was captured. By way of reward he was made a baronet in 1858. However the tropical climate had broken his health and he was forced to return to England in 1860. He died in the Pyrenees in 1863. He did well to get this statue - let's face it, he was no Gandhi.
Posted on 4th September 2007
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