Thomas Francis Meagher

Thomas Francis Meagher (August 3, 1823 – July 1, 1867) is an Irish nationalist and leader of the Young Irelanders in the Rebellion of 1848.

After being convicted of sedition, he is first sentenced to death, but receives transportation for life to Van Diemen's Land in Australia.

In 1852 he escapes and makes his way to the United States, where he settles in New York City.

There Meagher studies law, works as a journalist, and travels to present lectures on the Irish cause and marries for a second time.

At the beginning of the American Civil War, Meagher joins the U.S. Army and rises to the rank of brigadier general.

He is most notable for recruiting and leading the Irish Brigade, and encouraging support among Irish immigrants for the Union.

He has one surviving son, from his first wife.

Following the Civil War, Meagher is appointed acting governor of the Montana Territory.

In 1867, Meagher drowns in the swift-running Missouri River after falling accidentally from a steamboat at Fort Benton.

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