Essex, Robert Devereux, Earl of (1591-1646). Retiring, taciturn, yet honest, Robert Devereux, like many of his contemporaries, gained extensive military experience on the continent before being appointed admiral in charge of operations against Cadiz, and second-in-command during the Bishops' war of 1639. During the English civil war he was appointed lord general by parliament (see British civil wars), and although not an inspired tactician he was popular with his men and gave parliament a much-needed morale boost by relieving Gloucester in 1643. However, defeat followed at Lostwithiel in 1644 and he resigned in April 1645 with the introduction of the Self-Denying Ordinance.
— Jamie Belich
