Arthur Owen (MP) facts for kids
Arthur Owen (born around 1608 – died September 8, 1678) was an important Welsh politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of the government that makes laws, at different times between 1645 and 1678. He also fought as a soldier for the Parliamentary army during the English Civil War.
Owen was the son of John Owen from Orielton and his mother Dorothy Laugharne. He was also the brother of Sir Hugh Owen, 1st Baronet. He started studying at Hart Hall, Oxford (a part of Oxford University) in 1626. Later, in 1633, he became a lawyer after training at Lincoln's Inn.
Early Life and Military Role
Arthur Owen became a Justice of the Peace (a local judge) for Anglesey in 1642. In the same year, he was chosen by Parliament to help organize soldiers in Pembrokeshire.
During the English Civil War, Owen was a Major in the army led by Colonel Laugharne. They won an important battle against the Royalists (supporters of the King) in Pembrokeshire in 1643. By 1644, Owen became a Colonel and was given more responsibilities to help Parliament in Pembrokeshire, Cardiganshire, and Carmarthenshire.
Political Career
In 1645, Arthur Owen was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Pembrokeshire in what was called the Long Parliament. He served until 1648.
After a break, he was elected as an MP for Pembrokeshire again in 1654, during a time known as the First Protectorate Parliament. In 1659, he was also elected as an MP for Pembroke.
When the monarchy was brought back to England, Owen was elected MP for Pembrokeshire in the Convention Parliament in 1660. He was re-elected for Pembrokeshire in 1661 for the Cavalier Parliament and continued to serve as an MP until he passed away in 1678.
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