Alexander Bence facts for kids

Alexander Bence was an English merchant and politician who lived in the 1600s. He was born around 1590. He served in the House of Commons of England, which is like a part of the government, from 1640 to 1648 and again in 1654. He supported the Parliamentarian side during the English Civil War. This was a big conflict in England between the King and Parliament.

Who Was Alexander Bence?

Alexander Bence was the son of Alexander Bence and Marie Squier. His mother was the daughter of Thomas Squier. Alexander Bence became a successful merchant, which means he bought and sold goods. He was also involved in politics, helping to make decisions for the country.

His Time in Parliament

In November 1640, Alexander Bence was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for a place called Aldeburgh. He served in a special Parliament known as the Long Parliament. He continued to be an MP until 1648, when many members were removed from Parliament during a big change.

In 1642, Parliament asked him to be one of the people in charge of the Navy. This happened because the King had stopped his own navy officers from doing their jobs. Bence was also a member of the Worshipful Company of Grocers in City of London. This was a powerful group of merchants. In May 1653, he became an Alderman for the Walbrook area, which meant he was a local leader in the city.

In 1654, he was elected as an MP again, this time for Suffolk. He served in the First Protectorate Parliament. Later, from 1659 to 1660, he was the leader, or "master," of Trinity House. This was an important organization that looked after lighthouses and helped with shipping.

His Family

Alexander Bence married Anne Aylett from Rendham, Suffolk. They had a son named John Bence. John also became an MP for Aldeburgh, just like his father. Alexander Bence's brother, Squire Bence, was also an MP for Aldeburgh during the Long Parliament. It seems politics ran in the family!