Edward Dendy (regicide) facts for kids

Edward Dendy (born around 1613 – died 1674) was an important official during a big change in English history. He played a key role in the events leading up to the trial of King Charles I.

Who Was Edward Dendy?

Edward Dendy followed in his father's footsteps. His father was a "Serjeant-at-arms," which was an important job. A Serjeant-at-arms was an officer who helped keep order in places like the Parliament. They also carried out official orders.

Dendy's Role in Parliament

Edward Dendy became a Serjeant-at-arms himself. He worked for the Long Parliament and later for the Rump Parliament. These were different groups of people who ran England during a time when there was no king.

Proclaiming the King's Trial

On January 8, 1649, Dendy had a very important task. As the Serjeant-at-arms for the Rump Parliament, he officially announced that King Charles I would be put on trial in London. This was a huge event in English history. Because of his important work, Dendy was given another key job on March 27 of the same year. He became the Serjeant-at-arms for the Council of State, which was the main government body at the time.

Serving the New Government

During the time known as the Interregnum, England was ruled without a king. Dendy continued to serve the new government in many different ways.

Proclaiming Oliver Cromwell

One of his most notable actions was on December 19, 1653. On this day, Edward Dendy was the one who officially announced that Oliver Cromwell would become the "Protector" of England. This meant Cromwell was the new leader of the country.

Life After the Monarchy Returned

In 1660, the monarchy was brought back to England. This event is known as the Restoration. King Charles II, the son of Charles I, became king.

Living in Exile

When the king returned, a general pardon was given to many people. However, Edward Dendy was not included in this pardon. Because of his past actions, he had to leave England. He first went to Rotterdam. In 1661, he left Rotterdam quickly before the English ambassador, George Downing, could arrange for his arrest. Dendy then moved to Switzerland. He joined other people who had also supported the Parliament and were now living away from England. He settled in a city called Lausanne in Switzerland, where he lived until he passed away in 1674.