Wolfe acquired a commission as a lieutenant in 1700, rising quickly to captain in 1705 and becoming a brigade major during the Flanders Campaign of the Duke of Marlborough.

The Treaty of Utrecht brought a long period of peace to Europe, limiting the opportunities for active service.

The declaration of the War of Jenkins' Ear triggered an expansion of the British military, with several new regiments of marines being created.

[2] A major expedition was planned to sail for the Caribbean under Lord Cathcart to follow up the British victory at Porto Bello.

In 1740 Wolfe and his [clarification needed] travelled down to Portsmouth and then on to the Isle of Wight where the expedition was being assembled, bring his son with him as a volunteer.

Edward Wolfe died on 26 March 1759 at the age of 74, while his son was crossing the Atlantic Ocean to assault French forces in Canada.