Anthony Cary, 5th Viscount Falkland facts for kids
Anthony Cary, 5th Viscount Falkland (born February 16, 1656 – died May 24, 1694) was an important nobleman from Scotland and a politician in England. His family name is sometimes spelled Carey.
He was born at Farley Castle in Somerset, England. When he was just a child in 1663, his father, Henry Cary, 4th Viscount Falkland, passed away. Anthony then inherited his father's title, becoming the 5th Viscount Falkland.
He married Rebecca Lytton, and they had one daughter named Harriott Cary, who sadly passed away in 1683.
Who Was Anthony Cary?
Anthony Cary was a significant figure in 17th-century British politics. As a Scottish nobleman, he had the right to be a Member of Parliament in England. This allowed him to play a role in the government and make decisions for the country.
A Career in Politics
Anthony Cary was a member of the Tory political party. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for several areas:
- Oxfordshire from 1685 to 1689
- Great Marlow from 1689 to 1690
- Great Bedwyn from 1690 until his death
Anthony Cary held several important jobs related to the English Navy. From 1681 to 1689, he was the Treasurer of the Navy. In this role, he managed the money for the navy under King Charles II and King James II.
Later, from 1690 to 1693, he worked as a Commissioner of the Admiralty. This meant he was part of a group that helped manage the navy's operations. Finally, from 1693 to 1694, he became the First Lord of the Admiralty. This was a very high position, making him the main person in charge of the entire navy.
His Last Years and Legacy
In May 1694, Anthony Cary passed away at the age of 38. He died from smallpox, a serious disease at the time. He was buried in Westminster Abbey, a famous church in London where many important people are laid to rest.
Even today, Anthony Cary's name lives on. The Falkland Islands, a group of islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, were named in his honor. The title "Viscount Falkland" itself comes from Falkland Palace, a historic home of Scottish kings in Falkland, Fife, Scotland.