Henry St John, 1st Viscount St John facts for kids
Henry St John was an important English politician who lived a long time ago. He was born in 1652 and passed away in 1742. He came from places like Wiltshire, Surrey, and Westminster. He was known as the 1st Viscount St John, a special title given to him later in life.
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Early Life and Education
Henry St John was born in 1652. He was the first son of Sir Walter St John and his wife, Johanna.
He went to famous schools like Eton College. He also studied at Cambridge University, attending Caius College. Later, he earned a Master of Arts degree from St John's College, Cambridge. In 1702, he received another degree from Oxford University.
Henry St John's Political Journey
Henry St John was a Member of Parliament (MP). This means he was elected to represent people in the Parliament of England. He served as an MP for Wootton Bassett during several periods: from 1679 to 1681, 1685 to 1687, 1689 to 1695, and 1698 to 1700.
He also represented Wiltshire in Parliament from 1695 to 1698. Besides being an MP, he held other important roles. He was a Deputy Lieutenant for Wiltshire starting in 1683. He also served as a Justice of the Peace for the county from 1685. These roles meant he helped with local government and law.
Family and Special Titles
Henry St John was married two times. His first wife was Lady Mary Rich. They married in 1673. She passed away in 1678. They had one son together, who later became known as Henry St John, 1st Viscount Bolingbroke.
His second wife was Angelica Magdalena Pellissary. They married in 1687. Angelica was the daughter of a French treasurer. With Angelica, Henry had three sons and one daughter. Two of their sons passed away before their father. Their surviving son was John St John, 2nd Viscount St John.
In 1708, Henry St John inherited the title of 4th Baronet from his father. This was a special family title. Then, in 1716, he received an even higher honor. He was made the 1st Viscount St John. This new title allowed him to join the House of Lords, which is part of the British Parliament.
Viscount St John lived a long life. He passed away on April 8, 1742, when he was 89 years old. He was buried at St Mary's Church, Battersea.