Sir John Moore (1761-1809), lieutenant-general, eldest surviving son of Dr. John Moore, joined the army in 1776. He served in America during the War of Independence, and was MP for Linlithgow 1784-90. He became lieutenant-colonel of the 51st Foot, and served in Corsica, the West Indies, Ireland, the Netherlands, the Mediterranean, the Near East and Egypt. In 1801 Moore was appointed colonel of the 52nd Foot regiment. On the renewal of war with France in 1803 he was appointed to a brigade including the 52nd, encamped near Sandgate, Kent, part of a division commanded by General Sir David Dundas. He introduced a new system of drill and manoeuvre, discipline and internal economy 'which laid the foundation of the famous Peninsular light division' ( Dictionary of National Biography ). Moore was killed at the Battle of Corunna in the Peninsular War, 1809.
From the guide to the Sir John Moore: Papers, c.1803-1805, (Cambridge University Library, Department of Manuscripts and University Archives)
