James Dawkins (MP, died 1766) facts for kids

James Dawkins (born around 1696, died 1766) was an important English landowner and politician. He was known for owning large areas of land and for serving in the British Parliament.

Early Life and Family Connections

James Dawkins was the second son of Colonel Richard Dawkins. His father was a landowner in Jamaica and was involved in the local government there. James's mother was Mrs. Elizabeth Masters.

When he was 16 years old, in 1713, James Dawkins began studying at Magdalen College, Oxford. This was a well-known university at the time.

Land Ownership and Politics

James Dawkins lived at Rusley Park in Bishopstone, Wiltshire. He also bought a large area of land called the Busby estate in Over Norton, Oxfordshire.

In 1734, James Dawkins decided to run for a position in the British Parliament. This is like running for a major political office today. He wanted to become a Member of Parliament (MP) for the area of Oxford. He spent a lot of money on his campaign, but he decided to stop before the final vote.

However, he still managed to become an MP! He was chosen to represent the area of New Woodstock without anyone running against him. This happened because he had the strong support of a very influential person, the Duchess of Marlborough.

James Dawkins served as an MP for several years. But in 1747, he was not re-elected. He lost his position to John Bateman, 2nd Viscount Bateman, who had the support of the Duke of Marlborough.

Later Life

In the 1750s, James Dawkins was thought to be a Jacobite. This meant he supported the idea of bringing back the old royal family to the throne of Britain.

James Dawkins never married. He passed away on May 10, 1766. His estate at Over Norton Park was inherited by his nephew, Henry Dawkins.