James Brydges, 8th Baron Chandos facts for kids
James Brydges, 8th Baron Chandos (1642–1714) was an important English diplomat. He served as an Ambassador for England in the Ottoman Empire, a powerful empire that existed for many centuries.
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Early Life and Family Connections
James Brydges was born in 1642. His father was Sir John Brydges, 2nd Baronet. James went to St John's College, Oxford, which is a famous university in England.
In 1651, he inherited the title of 3rd Baronet of Wilton, Herefordshire. Later, in 1686, he became the 8th Baron Chandos of Sudeley. This happened after his cousin, William Brydges, 7th Baron Chandos, passed away. Being a Baron meant he held a noble title in England.
Serving as an Ambassador
Becoming an Ambassador
Lord Chandos had strong ties to the Levant Company. This was a group of English merchants who traded with countries in the Middle East. His father-in-law, Sir Robert Barnard, was a merchant connected to this company.
The Levant Company had a big say in choosing who would be the British ambassador in Constantinople (which is now Istanbul, Turkey). Even though King Charles II had some concerns about Lord Chandos's political views, the Company chose him on April 22, 1680.
Life in Constantinople
Lord Chandos arrived in Constantinople as the ambassador on July 22, 1681. An ambassador is like a special representative for their country in another nation. Their job is to build good relationships and handle important discussions.
He served in this role for about three years. He was called back to England in November 1684. He finally left Turkey in October 1687. During this time, the Ottoman Empire was expanding its power into Europe. They even reached the city of Vienna.
Other Public Service
Besides being an ambassador, James Brydges also served as the High Sheriff of Herefordshire in 1667. A High Sheriff was a very important local official in England. They were responsible for keeping law and order in their county.
His Family's Legacy
James Brydges married Elizabeth Barnard. They had several children. Their son, James Brydges, 1st Duke of Chandos, became very famous. He was known for being the employer of the great composer Handel. He was also a friend of the famous poet Alexander Pope.
Lord Chandos's daughter, The Hon. Mary Brydges, married Theophilus Leigh. Their family line continued, and Mary became the great-grandmother of the celebrated novelist Jane Austen. Jane Austen wrote famous books like Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility.
