The Death of Major Peirson, 6 January 1781 is a 1783 large oil painting by John Singleton Copley

In 1781, France invaded the Channel Island of Jersey. It was successfully defended by the British – an important victory at a time when they were failing in their war with America ( American war of Independence ) and about to lose control of their American colonies. This painting celebrates the victory and commemorates the death of Major Francis Peirson and his refusal to surrender.