Beauchamp St John facts for kids
Sir Beauchamp St John (born 1594, died 1667) was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's Parliament. He supported the Parliament's side, known as the Roundheads, during the English Civil War.
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Early Life and Family
Beauchamp St John was born on March 17, 1594. His father was Oliver St John, 3rd Baron St John of Bletso, a nobleman. His mother was Dorothy Reid. Beauchamp was one of six brothers who became important politicians. His brothers Henry, Oliver, Rowland, Anthony, and Alexander all served in Parliament.
Education and Knighthood
Beauchamp went to Queens' College, Cambridge in 1609. He earned a Master of Arts (MA) degree in 1613. This happened when the King visited the university. Later, in 1613, he joined Lincoln's Inn, a place where people studied to become lawyers. In 1619, he was made a knight by the King. This honor meant he could be called "Sir."
Political Career
Beauchamp St John was elected to the House of Commons several times. This was an important part of England's government.
Member of Parliament
- In 1621, he became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Bedfordshire.
- He was elected MP for Bedford in 1626.
- He was re-elected for Bedford in 1628. He served until 1629.
- From 1629 to 1640, King Charles I ruled without calling Parliament.
- In April 1640, Beauchamp was again elected MP for Bedford in the Short Parliament.
- He was re-elected for Bedford in November 1640 for the Long Parliament.
Role in the English Civil War
Beauchamp St John was a strong supporter of the Parliament. This was during the time leading up to the English Civil War. He continued to support Parliament throughout the war. The people who supported Parliament were often called Roundheads.
Personal Life
On October 13, 1613, Beauchamp St John married Rebecca Hawkins. She was from Tilbrook. They had a son who sadly died young. They also had a daughter. In 1625, Beauchamp inherited the manor (a large estate) of Tilbrook through his wife.
His older brother, Oliver, inherited the family title. He became the Baron St John of Bletso and later the Earl of Bolingbroke.
