William Alexander (18 September 1880 – 18 October 1917) was a Canadian soldier who served with the 10th Battalion, CEF in France during the First World War. His execution by firing squad following a charge of desertion sparked controversy in Canada. He was one of 25 Canadian soldiers executed during the course of the First World War.

Notable quotes

“Although my hap be hard, my heart is high.”
— Aurora. Sonnet 30.
“Of all things that are feared, the least is death.”
— Domesday. The Second Hour. St. 73.
“His birthright sold, some pottage so to gain.”
— Domesday. The Sixth Hour. St. 39.
“That queen of nations, absolutely great.”
— Domesday. The Sixth Hour. St. 77.
“That fatal sergeant, Death, spares no degree.”
— Domesday. The Ninth Hour. St. 114.
“Despair and confidence both banish fear.”
— Domesday. The Tenth Hour. St. 55.

Quotes via Wikiquote (CC BY-SA), each with its original source.

Not who you're looking for? Others named William Alexander: British artist, born 1767 (1767–1816) · Continental Army general (1726-1783) · Scottish businessperson, born 1602 · rugby player, born 1874 (1874–1937)

Overview

William Alexander (18 September 1880 – 18 October 1917) was a Canadian soldier who served with the 10th Battalion, CEF in France during the First World War. His execution by firing squad following a charge of desertion sparked controversy in Canada. He was one of 25 Canadian soldiers executed during the course of the First World War. History Early life William Alexander was born in London, United Kingdom on 18 October 1880, but the early life of Alexander is very obscure. He served for 8 years in the King's Royal Rifle Corps before emigrating to Canada. References

From Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0).