Bartholomew Green (martyr) facts for kids

Bartholomew Green (born 1530 – died 27 January 1556) was an English Protestant who lived during a time of big changes in England's religion. He is remembered for his strong beliefs and for facing challenges because of them.

Early Life and Education

Green was born in Basinghall, a part of London, around 1530. He came from a wealthy family who followed the Roman Catholic faith. When he was sixteen, his parents, who believed in the importance of learning, sent him to the University of Oxford. He earned his first degree there in 1547.

While at Oxford, Bartholomew was a very dedicated student. He became interested in the ideas of Peter Martyr Vermigli, a famous teacher. Through Peter Martyr's lectures, Bartholomew learned about the Protestant religion and decided to follow it. This was a big change from his family's traditional Catholic beliefs.

After leaving Oxford, Bartholomew Green began studying law at the Inner Temple in London. After a while, he felt strongly about his religious beliefs again. He decided to focus on his faith and live a life that matched his new convictions.

Standing Up for His Beliefs

Bartholomew's family was very upset by his choice to become a Protestant. His grandfather, Dr. Bartlet, even tried to offer him money to change his mind and return to the Catholic faith. However, Bartholomew stayed true to his beliefs.

While at Oxford, Bartholomew had become good friends with Christopher Goodman. In 1554, they shared a special religious ceremony together in London. Soon after, Christopher Goodman left England.

In 1555, a letter that Bartholomew Green had written to Christopher Goodman was found by authorities. The letter contained a phrase that caused trouble. Because of this letter, Bartholomew was accused of a serious crime against the queen. He was sent to the Tower of London. However, the accusation against him was found to be false, and he was released from the Tower.

Facing Challenges

Even though the first accusation was dropped, Bartholomew Green's troubles were not over. In November 1555, he was questioned about his religious beliefs by Bishop Bonner. Bartholomew was then sent to Newgate Prison.

He was questioned again on January 15, 1556, by Bishop Bonner and John Feckenham. Because he refused to give up his Protestant faith, he was sentenced to death.

His Final Days

John Foxe, a famous writer of that time, wrote a detailed account of Bartholomew Green's final days. Foxe described the letters Bartholomew wrote from prison. These letters showed his strong faith and calm spirit. One friend, named Careless, wrote to Bartholomew in prison, calling him a "meek and loving lamb of Christ."

Bartholomew Green faced his death bravely and cheerfully. He was executed at Smithfield at 9 a.m. on January 27, 1556. Several other people were executed with him on that day. They included a priest named Thomas Whittle, three tradesmen (Thomas Brown, John Tudson, and John Went), and two women (Isobella Forster and Joan Lushford).

Bartholomew Green is remembered as a kind and gentle person who stood firm in his religious convictions during a difficult time in English history.

Images for kids

• Peter Martyr Vermigli.jpg

  Peter Martyr Vermigli was a key figure in Bartholomew Green's conversion to Protestantism.

• Bonner.jpg

  Bishop Bonner questioned Bartholomew Green about his religious beliefs.

• Tower of London from the Thames.jpg

  Bartholomew Green was imprisoned in the Tower of London for a time.

• Newgate Prison.jpg

  Bartholomew Green was also held at Newgate Prison.

• Smithfield.jpg

  Bartholomew Green was executed at Smithfield.