Hugh Courtenay (MP) facts for kids
Hugh Courtenay was a Welsh politician who lived in the 1640s and 1650s. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of the government, in 1653. During the English Civil War, he was an important officer who supported the Parliament, known as the Roundheads.
Early Life and Military Career
Hugh Courtenay studied at Oxford University and earned a special degree called a Master of Arts (MA) in 1649. He became a high-ranking officer in the army. In 1650, he was a Quarter-Master General, helping to manage army supplies and movements.
He was also made Deputy Governor of Beaumaris Castle in Wales in 1650. This meant he helped run the castle and its defenses. He also became a captain of a troop of horse soldiers in the counties of Carnarvon and Anglesea.
In 1651, he continued his military roles. He was again a Quarter-Master General and became the Governor of Anglesea. The Council of State, which was a powerful government group, made him a commissioner for the local army (Militia) in North Wales. In 1652, he was allowed to travel to Holland.
Time in Parliament
In 1653, Hugh Courtenay was chosen to represent Wales in a special Parliament called the Barebones Parliament. This was a short-lived Parliament that tried to make many changes. He attended many of its meetings, showing he was very active.
During his time in Parliament, he joined different groups called Committees. One of these was the Committee for the Mint, which dealt with making coins.
Later Life and Challenges
Later, Hugh Courtenay had some disagreements with the Council of State. Because of this, he was put in prison with another important soldier, Major-General Harrison.
He was ordered to be released from prison in 1656, but his release was delayed. He was finally discharged from being a prisoner in the Isle of Wight in late 1656 and again in 1658.
In 1659, a military leader named Colonel John Jones suggested that Hugh Courtenay should become Governor of Beaumaris Castle again. However, the government committee decided to think about it later.
In 1660, the Council of State ordered Hugh Courtenay to be arrested. He was suspected of trying to make soldiers disloyal and being a danger to the government. He was held in a place called Lambeth House. In 1661, he was released from prison, but he had to promise to leave the country within 15 days.
