BattlefieldsJacobite council at Edinburgh — decision to march south 1745
Jacobite Risings

Jacobite council at Edinburgh — decision to march south 1745

1745
Midlothian, Scotland
Also known as: Council of war Edinburgh October 1745 · Jacobite decision to invade England 1745
Era
Jacobite Risings
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
Midlothian, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Government (strategic shock)
VS
Victor
Jacobites (decision to march)
Outcome
Council of war at Holyroodhouse decides to march into England; army crosses Tweed
The Battle

History & Significance

At a council of war at Holyroodhouse in late October 1745, Prince Charles and his chiefs debated whether to march into England. Lord George Murray and many chiefs were doubtful — English support was uncertain and government forces were converging. Charles argued passionately for the march, promising that English Jacobites and a French landing would materialise. The council voted to advance. The army crossed the Tweed on 8 November 1745, entering England. This decision — which proved fatally optimistic — was the turning point that led to Derby and the eventual retreat. Without the English march, the Jacobites might have consolidated in Scotland.

Forces Involved

Jacobite army council; decision-making body

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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