The Homicidal Earl

The Homicidal Earl is a biography of James Brudenell, 7th Earl of Cardigan, whose command of the Light Brigade at Balaclava made him one of the Crimean War’s most controversial figures. Before the charge, his career had already been marked by adultery proceedings, duels, courts martial, political privilege and repeated conflict with fellow officers and the institutions of the British Army.

David reconstructs Cardigan’s social world, regimental commands and bitter rivalry with Lord Lucan before examining the order that sent the Light Brigade into the North Valley. Public celebration after Balaclava temporarily transformed scandal into heroism, but accusations about his treatment of men and his conduct during the charge persisted. The book asks whether Cardigan’s reputation was rescued by courage, class influence or a national need for heroic myth.