William Alexander

William Alexander was a wealthy New York merchant and landowner who claimed the title of the sixth earl of Stirling and built a distinguished military career.

Born in a family of a Scottish immigrant, Alexander was an educated businessman engaged in various commercial ventures. He made his early fortune in slave trading, iron mining and manufacturing and land speculation. His fortune was additionally increased by his father’s inheritance.

During the American Revolutionary War he was appointed general under George Washington and played an important role in the Revolutionary War commanding the troops at the battles of Saratoga, Brandywine and Long Island.