James Chambers (politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James Chambers
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| Member of Parliament for Belfast South |
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| In office 10 January 1910 – 11 June 1917 |
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| Preceded by | Thomas Sloan |
| Succeeded by | William Arthur Lindsay |
| Solicitor-General for Ireland | |
| In office 1917–1917 |
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| Monarch | George V |
| Preceded by | James O'Connor |
| Succeeded by | Arthur Warren Samuels |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1863 Darkley, Ireland |
| Died | 11 June 1917 (aged 53–54) |
| Nationality | British |
| Political party | Irish Unionist Party |
| Alma mater | Queen's College, Belfast University of London King's Inns |
| Profession | Barrister |
James Chambers (1863 – 11 June 1917) was an Irish lawyer and Unionist politician. He served as a Member of Parliament for South Belfast. He also held the important legal role of Solicitor-General for Ireland.
Contents
Early Life and Education
James Chambers was born in 1863 in Darkley, County Armagh, Ireland. His parents were Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Chambers.
He attended Lurgan College for his early education. Later, he went to Queen's College, Belfast to study law. He continued his legal studies at the University of London. He also studied at King's Inns, a famous legal school in Dublin.
Legal Career Highlights
Chambers became a lawyer, or "was called to the Bar," in 1885. This meant he could argue cases in court. He worked in the North-East Circuit, which is a specific area where lawyers practice.
In 1902, he became a Queen's Counsel (QC). This is a special title for experienced lawyers. Three years later, he was chosen as a "bencher" of King's Inns. This is an honor given to senior members of the legal profession.
In March 1917, James Chambers was appointed Solicitor-General for Ireland. This is a high-ranking legal position in the government. He held this important role until his death in June of the same year.
Political Career and Beliefs
James Chambers was a Unionist politician. Unionists believed that Ireland should remain part of the United Kingdom. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for South Belfast. He was an MP from 1910 until 1917.
He was a strong supporter of the Union. He spoke about his views during debates on "Home Rule." Home Rule was a movement that wanted Ireland to have its own government. Chambers believed that if Britain ever "cast off" (abandoned) the Unionists, they would have to act independently. He felt that loyalty was a two-way street.
Chambers was also one of the first ten people to sign the Ulster Covenant. This was an important document signed in 1912. It was a pledge by Unionists to resist Home Rule for Ireland. Many people signed it to show their strong opposition.
Later Life and Legacy
James Chambers passed away in June 1917. He was remembered fondly by his colleagues. Maurice Healy, another lawyer, described him as a kind and skilled barrister. He was considered one of the best lawyers in the North-East Circuit.
