Henry Smith (regicide) facts for kids
Henry Smith (1620–1668) was an English Member of Parliament (MP) during a very important time in England's history. An MP is like a representative who helps make laws for the country. He was also one of the people involved in the decision to execute King Charles I.
Henry Smith was born in 1620 in Withcote, a place in Leicestershire, England. His parents were Henry Smith and Frideswide Wright. He went to Oxford University and later studied law at Lincoln's Inn. He also got married to a woman named Miss Holland.
Contents
A Life in Politics
Becoming a Member of Parliament
In 1640, Henry Smith was chosen by the people of Leicestershire to be their representative in Parliament. This was a time of great change and disagreement in England, leading to a big conflict between Parliament and King Charles I.
The King's Trial
The disagreements between Parliament and King Charles I eventually led to a war. After the war, King Charles I was put on trial. In January 1649, Henry Smith was one of the special officials, called commissioners, who oversaw the trial of King Charles.
Signing a Historic Document
At the end of the trial, Henry Smith was one of 59 people who signed an official document. This document was the order for the King's execution. This was a very rare and serious event in English history.
Later Life and Imprisonment
After the King's Execution
Years later, in 1660, the monarchy was brought back to England. This period is known as the Restoration. Many people who had been involved in the King's trial, including Henry Smith, faced consequences for their actions.
Life in Prison
Henry Smith was put on trial for his role in the King's execution. He was initially given a very severe punishment. However, he asked for a different outcome, and his punishment was changed to life in prison instead.
He was first held at the Tower of London, a famous prison, until 1664. After that, he was moved to Jersey, an island off the coast of France. He was kept in Mont Orgueil castle there. It is believed that Henry Smith died in Jersey in 1668.
