Edward Clarke (MP for Norwich) facts for kids

Edward Clarke (born 1636, died 1723) was an important English politician. He was born in East Raynham, Norfolk. His father was Samuel Clarke, a church leader (rector). His mother was Katherine Symonds, who came from a well-known family in Norfolk. Edward Clarke was also related to Sir Anthony Lee, who was a Member of Parliament and worked for the king.

Edward Clarke's Life

Edward Clarke was a member of the Whig political party. This party believed in strong Parliament and limited royal power. He was also an Alderman, which meant he was a senior member of the local government in a city. Besides politics, he worked as a worsted weaver, making fabric from wool.

In 1700, Edward Clarke became the mayor of Norwich. The next year, in 1701, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Norwich. An MP is a person elected to represent their area in the country's main law-making body. However, he lost the elections in 1702 and 1703.

Edward Clarke passed away in 1723 and was buried in Norwich on November 17.

His Family

Edward Clarke had several children. His most famous son was Samuel Clarke, who became a well-known thinker and writer about religion and philosophy. Edward Clarke left some of his properties to Samuel. His other children were John Clarke, Mary Gough, and Elizabeth Skipper.

Edward Clarke was also distantly related to Nathaniel Symonds. Nathaniel was also a Member of Parliament for Great Yarmouth from 1709 to 1710.