Alexander Leslie

Born: 1580
Died: 4th April 1661, Balgonie, Fife, Scotland
Allegiance: Parliamentarian
Position: 1st Earl of Leven, Commander of Scottish army

Leven gained military experience during the Thirty Years War, fighting for the Swedes. He also led the Scots during the Bishops' Wars , which were largely successful.

He was again chosen to lead the Scottish army in 1644, when they marched to join the parliamentarian forces in England.

In May 1646, Charles I surrendered to Leven in Nottighamshire. After negotiating a ransom, the Scots turned Charles over to parliament the following year. Leven then returned to Scotland and retired.

Leven disagreed with the trial and execution of Charles, and led an army in support of Charles II. He clashed with Oliver Cromwell , but was eventually captured in 1651.

He was released in 1654, and retired peacefully.