Horatio Townshend, 1st Viscount Townshend facts for kids
Horatio Townshend was an important English politician. He was born on December 14, 1630, and passed away on December 10, 1687. He held special titles like Baron Townshend and later Viscount Townshend.
Before getting these titles, he was known as Sir Horatio Townshend. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a big meeting place for politicians in England. He served there from 1656 to 1660.
Horatio's Early Life and Education
Horatio Townshend was the younger son of Sir Roger Townshend. His family lived in a place called Raynham.
He went to St John's College, Cambridge, a famous university, in 1644. After his studies, he traveled around Europe. He visited countries like Italy and Switzerland between 1646 and 1648.
In 1648, Horatio inherited a special family title called a "baronetcy" when his older brother passed away. This made him Sir Horatio Townshend.
Horatio's Political Journey
Horatio Townshend became a politician and was chosen to represent Norfolk in the English Parliament. He was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) in 1656 and again in 1659.
In 1660, he was elected MP for Norfolk once more. Horatio was a strong supporter of King Charles II. He played a very important part in bringing the king back to power in England. This event is known as the restoration of the monarchy.
Because of his important work, Horatio received special honors. In 1661, he was given the title of Baron Townshend. This made him a member of the peerage, a group of high-ranking nobles. He also served as the Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk from 1660 to 1676.
Later, in 1682, he received an even higher honor. He was made Viscount Townshend.
Family Life
Horatio Townshend married Mary Ashe. Her father, Sir Joseph Ashe, was also a Member of Parliament.
Lord Townshend passed away in December 1687 when he was 56 years old. His son, Charles, inherited his titles. Charles later became a very important statesman himself.
Other famous people who are descendants of Horatio Townshend include George Townshend, 1st Marquess Townshend, Charles Townshend, and Thomas Townshend, 1st Viscount Sydney.
