Boyle, Roger (1621-1679)

Irish soldier, politician, and author, the fifth son of Richard Boyle, 1st Earl of Cork. In the Civil War he first fought for the Royalists, but after the execution of Charles I joined forces with the Parliamentarians, and played a prominent role in Oliver Cromwell's suppression of Irish Catholics. Prior to the Restoration of Charles II, he again adeptly changed sides, and became a trusted member of the king's circle.

Boyle was born in Waterford. He was initially persuaded under duress to join Cromwell, but later won his favour, being appointed one of his special council and a member of the House of Lords. On Cromwell's death, he initially supported Richard Cromwell, but after his abdication and the collapse of the protectorate, crossed to Ireland and secured it for Charles II. Four months after the Restoration, he was rewarded by being made Earl of Orrery.

Boyle was the author of several poems, eight heroic plays, two comedies, a romance, Parthenissa 1654-65, and the military study Treatise on the Art of War 1677. He also served as governor of Scotland 1655-59.