Overview
Alexander Leslie
(c. 1580—1661) army officer
Quick Reference
(c. 1580–1661).
Leslie was a good professional soldier, who served for many years in the Swedish army and fought alongside Gustav Adolf at Lützen in 1632. When the Scottish presbyterians began armed resistance in 1639, Leslie was placed in command of the covenanting army. In 1640 he brushed aside royalist resistance at Newburn and occupied Newcastle. He remained at the head of the Scottish forces in alliance with the English Parliament and fought at Marston Moor. When Charles II, after the execution of his father, reached an understanding with the Scottish presbyterians, Leslie once more commanded their forces, but was badly beaten by Cromwell at Dunbar in 1650.
Subjects: History — Regional and National History
