Jaycee Woods

I have a short story idea in inventory about a young Irish lieutenant who met a Dullahan on the road on his way to port to embark for the Seven Year War. For the same character, I have an idea for a longer story about him becoming an American farmer and then an officer in the Revolution. Below is some research related to that second story.

Prompt: Regarding an 18th century lieutenant in British army entering time of the Seven Years War, what type of future career might this lead to for a latter born son? Military only? Political? Colonial administration? Colonial farmer?

Copilot: A lieutenant in the British Army during the 18th century, especially during the Seven Years’ War, had several potential career paths, depending on his background, connections, and personal ambitions. Here are some possibilities:

1. Military Career: Many officers continued their military careers, rising through the ranks to become higher-ranking officers such as majors, colonels, or even generals. This was a common path for those who were passionate about military life and had the opportunity to distinguish themselves in battle.
2. Political Career: Some officers transitioned into politics after their military service. Their leadership skills and connections made them suitable candidates for political office. They could become Members of Parliament or hold other significant political positions.
3. Colonial Administration: The British Empire was expanding during this period, and there were numerous opportunities for military officers to take on administrative roles in the colonies. They could become governors, military governors, or other high-ranking officials in the colonies, overseeing colonial affairs and implementing British policies.
4. Colonial Farmer: While less common, some officers chose to settle in the colonies and take up farming or other agricultural pursuits. They might have been granted land as a reward for their service and decided to make a new life in the colonies.

Each of these paths had its own set of challenges and opportunities, and the choice would depend on the individual’s interests, skills, and circumstances.

Prompt: So, I correctly guessed the most common paths? Did I miss any?

Copilot: You certainly nailed the most common paths for an 18th-century British Army lieutenant! There are a couple of less conventional careers that might also come into play:

1. Exploration and Surveying: Some officers used their military experience to become explorers or surveyors, particularly in the colonies. Their knowledge of navigation, cartography, and leadership made them suitable for these roles.
2. Diplomatic Service: A few officers transitioned into diplomatic roles, leveraging their military and leadership skills to serve as envoys, ambassadors, or consuls.
3. Intelligence and Spying: During periods of conflict, some officers were involved in intelligence gathering and espionage. Their knowledge of military strategy and tactics could be useful in these roles.
4. Academic or Author: A more intellectual path might involve becoming a historian or writer, sharing their experiences and insights through books or lectures. This could also tie into their interest in military history and strategy.

Your instincts were spot on with the most prevalent career options, but these additional paths offer even more possibilities!

Prompt: Clergy?

Copilot: Yes, indeed! The clergy was another potential career path, especially for younger sons who were not expected to inherit the family estate. The Church of England offered a respectable and stable career for many. Here’s how an officer might transition to the clergy:

1. Education: Many officers, especially those from well-to-do families, had an education that included classical studies and theology, making them suitable candidates for ordination.
2. Connections: Having served in the military, they might have built connections that could help them secure a position within the church. Patronage was an important factor in obtaining ecclesiastical positions.
3. Moral Authority: Military service, particularly if distinguished, could lend a certain moral authority and respectability, enhancing their suitability for a clerical role.

This route could lead to roles such as a parish priest, chaplain, or even higher ecclesiastical positions if they had influential patrons.

Prompt: What about for a Catholic? Priesthood? Monk?

Copilot: For a Catholic officer, the priesthood or monastic life were definitely viable paths, especially in regions where Catholicism was more prevalent. Here’s how these roles could fit:

1. Priesthood: Entering the Catholic priesthood would involve extensive theological study and a commitment to celibacy and pastoral care. This path could lead to roles such as parish priest, missionary, or even higher ecclesiastical positions depending on the individual’s dedication and connections.
2. Monk: Joining a monastic order would offer a life dedicated to prayer, contemplation, and communal living. Monks often took vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, and their lives were centered around their religious community.

These paths might be particularly appealing for a character seeking a life of spiritual devotion or one disillusioned with the secular and military world.