Henry Parker (Australian politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir Henry Parker
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| 3rd Premier of New South Wales | |
| In office 3 October 1856 – 7 September 1857 |
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| Monarch | Victoria |
| Governor | Sir William Denison |
| Preceded by | Charles Cowper |
| Succeeded by | Charles Cowper |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Henry Watson Parker
1 June 1808 Lewisham, Kent, England, UK |
| Died | 2 February 1881 (aged 72) Richmond, Surrey, England, UK |
| Spouse | Emmeline Emily Macarthur |
Sir Henry Watson Parker, KCMG (born June 1, 1808 – died February 2, 1881) was an important leader in New South Wales, Australia. He served as the Premier, which is like the head of the government. Sir Henry lived during a time when Australia was still a British colony. He was good at politics before the government became more democratic in 1856.
Contents
Sir Henry Parker's Early Life and Journey to Australia
Henry Parker was born in Lewisham, England, on June 1, 1808. He was the fourth son in his family. When he was young, he had poor health. To help with this, he joined the British East India Company. This company allowed him to travel to many places. He visited India, China, and the Cape of Good Hope in Africa.
After his travels, he toured countries in Europe like France and Belgium. In 1837, he got a job as a private secretary. He worked for Sir George Gipps, who was about to become the Governor of New South Wales. In 1838, Henry Parker traveled with Governor Gipps to Australia.
Family Connections in Australia
In 1843, Henry Parker married Emmeline Emily Macarthur. She was the daughter of John Macarthur, a very famous person in Australia. John Macarthur was known for his work with wool. This marriage helped connect Henry Parker to important and traditional families in the colony.
Henry Parker's Political Career
In 1846, Governor Gipps chose Henry Parker to join the Legislative Council. This was a group of people who helped make laws for the colony. In May of that year, he was chosen as the Chairman of Committees. This job meant he helped lead discussions in the council. He kept this role until 1856. That year, a new system of government called responsible government began. This new system gave more power to elected officials.
Becoming Premier of New South Wales
After the new government started, Henry Parker was elected to the New South Wales Legislative Assembly. He represented the area of Parramatta. In September 1856, the government led by Charles Cowper faced a challenge. Another politician, John Hay, said he no longer trusted Cowper's government.
Governor William Denison was advised that Henry Parker might be the best person to bring different political groups together. So, Governor Denison asked Parker to form a new government. This meant Henry Parker would become the Premier.
Premier of New South Wales
As Premier, Henry Parker tried to include other important politicians in his team. He asked Charles Cowper and Stuart Donaldson, who had been Premiers before him, to join. However, Charles Cowper said no.
In March 1857, Parker's government passed an important law. This law helped to restart the Sydney municipal council. This council was important for managing the city. His government also passed other helpful laws.
Parker had planned to introduce a law about land. However, his government lost a vote on a different law about elections. Because of this, Henry Parker resigned as Premier on September 4, 1857.
Life After Politics
In 1858, Henry Parker moved back to England. It seems he never returned to Australia. He passed away in Richmond, England, in 1881. He left behind a large amount of money.
Honours and Recognition
Henry Parker was recognized for his service. In 1858, he was made a knight, which meant he could use "Sir" before his name. In 1877, he received another special honour. He was made a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George. This is a high award given by the British Crown.
See also
- Parker ministry
