General Sir James Macdonell or Macdonnell Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath KCH was the third son of Duncan Macdonnell of Glengarry.
Career
In 1794, he was a lieutenant in the 78th (Highlanders) Regiment of Foot. In 1795, he was Captain in the 17th Dragoons. He joined the Coldstream Guards in 1811 as a Lieutenant Colonel, and served in the Peninsular War.
He was wounded slightly in the battle.
He commanded the Brigade of Guards in Canada from 1838 to 1841. He was promoted general in 1854.
Views
He is best known for his command of the light troops defending Hougoumont at the battle of Waterloo, 1815, where he fought with great distinction, including leading the vital closing of the gates, with his sergeant, James Graham.