George Speke (politician, died 1689) facts for kids
George Speke (born 1623, died 1689) was an English politician. During the English Civil War, he supported the King (he was a Royalist). After King Charles II returned to the throne, George Speke became an early supporter of the Whig political party in Parliament.
Contents
A Life in Politics
Early Years and the Civil War
George Speke was born in a place called Whitelackington, near Ilminster in Somerset, England. His parents were George Speke and Joan Portman. He later married Mary Pye.
During the English Civil War, George Speke helped Prince Rupert, who was fighting for the King. When the town of Bridgwater surrendered, George Speke was taken as a hostage. His belongings were also seized by the other side. He had to pay a large amount of money, £2,390, to be set free in 1646.
Becoming a Member of Parliament
After the war, George Speke lived a quiet life for some time. He even served as the High Sheriff of Somerset from 1661 to 1662.
In 1679, he was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Somerset. At the same time, his son, John, also became an MP. George Speke started to support a new group of politicians called the "country party." He joined a political club called the Green Ribbon Club. He also voted for a bill that would have stopped the King's brother from becoming king.
Supporting the Duke of Monmouth
In 1681, George Speke welcomed the Duke of Monmouth to his home in Whitelackington. The Duke of Monmouth was a Protestant leader who many people hoped would become king instead of the King's Catholic brother. It was said that George Speke offered to help the Duke of Monmouth with soldiers if needed. After a plot against the King was discovered, George Speke's home was searched for weapons, but none were found.
Later, George Speke was accused of causing a riot. This happened when he tried to help his son-in-law, John Trenchard, who was being held by an official. George Speke was given a large fine for this. He tried to get the fine removed in 1689, but he was not successful.
George Speke passed away shortly after the Glorious Revolution in England.
Family Life
George Speke was married to Mary Pye. She was known for her strong religious beliefs and was also very active in politics. Some people believe that her political views influenced George Speke to change from supporting the King to supporting the Whig party.
They had nine children together. Five of their children followed their parents' political ideas. Their youngest daughter married John Trenchard. One of their sons, Charles, was executed after a rebellion led by the Duke of Monmouth. However, the rest of the family were pardoned after paying a large sum of £5,000.
The famous explorer, John Hanning Speke, who explored parts of Africa, was a descendant of George Speke's younger brother, William.
