Edward Cooke (1755–1820) facts for kids

Edward Cooke (born June 27, 1755 – died March 19, 1820) was a British politician and writer. He worked for the government and wrote pamphlets about political ideas. He held important jobs in both the Irish and British governments during a time of big changes.

Early Life and Education

Edward Cooke was born in Denham, Buckinghamshire, England. He was the only son of William Cooke, who was in charge of King's College, Cambridge. His mother was Catherine Sleech.

Edward went to two famous schools: Eton College and then King's College, Cambridge. He earned his first degree in 1777 and a master's degree in 1785. He was also a fellow at King's College for ten years.

Working in Ireland

In 1778, Edward Cooke started working for the government in Ireland. He became a private secretary to Sir Richard Heron, who was a top official in Ireland.

Cooke held many different jobs in the Irish government. From 1789 to 1796, he worked in the military department. Then, from 1796 to 1801, he worked in the civil department. He was also a Member of Parliament (MP) for areas like Lifford and Old Leighlin.

He was very good at his job and always supported British policies. He wrote several political pamphlets in the 1790s, sharing his ideas.

During the time the Irish Act of Union was being passed, Cooke faced a challenge. He believed in giving more rights to Catholics, which was called Catholic relief. This made his position difficult.

Because of this, he decided to return to England in 1801. He retired from his main roles in Ireland. He received some special jobs that paid him well, including keeping the records of the Irish parliament.

Politics in Britain

After returning to England, Edward Cooke did not have a job for a few years. But in 1804, he was appointed to a new role. He became an Under-Secretary of State for War and the Colonies. He worked under important leaders like Lord Camden and Viscount Castlereagh.

Cooke then followed Castlereagh to the Foreign Office. He even traveled with him to places like Vienna and Italy in 1814-1815. There, he helped Castlereagh with important peace negotiations after a big war. He also helped talk with the Vatican about Catholic rights.

In 1817, Edward Cooke decided to retire from his government work. His boss, Castlereagh, was sad to see him go.

Private Life

Edward Cooke got married on August 10, 1791. His wife was Isabella Gorges, the daughter of Hamilton Gorges, who was also an Irish MP. They did not have any children. Edward Cooke passed away in 1820.