A Military Dictionary and Gazetteer / Comprising ancient and modern military technical terms, historical accounts of all North American Indians, as well as ancient warlike tribes; also notices of battles from the earliest period to the present time, with a concise explanation of terms used in heraldry and the offices thereof. The work also gives valuable geographical information. Compiled from the best authorities of all nations. With an appendix containing the Articles of war, etc.

by Thomas Wilhelm

Jade (Fr.). A very hard stone, of an olive color, from which the handles of swords and sabres are manufactured in Poland and Turkey.

Jaen. Formerly an independent Moorish kingdom; is now a province of Spain. It was conquered by the Moors on their entrance into Spain. Jaen maintained its independence as a Moorish state till 1234, when it fell into the hands of Ferdinand III., and was added to the kingdom of Castile.

Jaffa, Yafa, or Joppa. A town of Asiatic Turkey, in the province of Syria, on the Mediterranean. This place attained its greatest prosperity in the times of the Crusaders, when it became the principal landing-place of the warriors of Christendom. In 1799 it was stormed by the French under Bonaparte, and here was perpetrated his shameful massacre of Turkish prisoners. In 1832, Mohammed Ali made himself master of it; but the Turks, with the assistance of the British and Austrians, took it from him again in 1840.

Jaffna, or Jaffnapatam. The capital of the district of Jaffnapatam, in Ceylon. The town is fortified, and possesses a good citadel; but it was taken, after a short resistance, by the British troops in 1795.

Jaghire. An Indian term, signifying the assignment of the revenues of a district to a servant or dependant of government, who is hence called Jaghirdar. Jaghires are frequently given in India to persons as a reward and compensation for their military services.

Jaghire Asham. An Indian term, signifying land granted for the support of the troops.

Jahpoor. A town of Hindostan, in the presidency of Bengal, 15 miles from Agra. This place has been the scene of two decisive battles; the first fought in 1688, between Aurungzebe and his brother Darah Sheeoh; and the second, in 1707, between Alum and Azain Usbaum, all Indian princes.

Jalapa. A city of the Mexican confederation, 60 miles west-northwest of Vera Cruz. In 1847-48 the American troops occupied it.

Jalet (Fr.). See [Galet].

Jalons (Fr.). Long poles with a wisp of straw at the top. They are fixed at different places and in different roads, to serve as signals of observation to advancing columns, when the country is inclosed, etc. They are likewise used as camp colors to mark out the ground on days of exercise.