About James Davis
Lived 1835 – 1893 (aged 58). James Davis was a British soldier.
James Davis VC (February 1835 – 2 March 1893) was a Scottish recipient of the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious award for gallantry in the face of the enemy that can be awarded to British and Commonwealth forces.
His full name was James Davis Kelly, but he dropped Kelly when he enlisted
Details Davis was approximately 23 years old, and a private in the 42nd Regiment of Foot, later The Black Watch (Royal Highlanders), British Army during the Indian Mutiny when the following deed took place on 15 April 1858 during the attack on Fort Ruhya, India for which he was awarded the VC.
His VC is on display in the Lord Ashcroft Gallery at the Imperial War Museum, London.
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Important facts
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Frequently asked questions
Who was James Davis?
Scottish soldier (1835–1893); recipient of the Victoria Cross
When was James Davis born?
James Davis was born on 1 February 1835 in Edinburgh.
When did James Davis die?
James Davis died on 2 March 1893 in Edinburgh.
What was James Davis's occupation?
James Davis was a soldier.
What nationality was James Davis?
James Davis was British.
Sources & further reading
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). James Davis. https://biography.guide/james-davis-soldier/
MLA: "James Davis." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/james-davis-soldier/.
Chicago: "James Davis." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/james-davis-soldier/.
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