James Lewis (MP for Cardiganshire) facts for kids
James Lewis (born in 1601) was a Welsh politician. He was a Member of Parliament, which means he helped make laws for England. He lived during a very important time in history, the English Civil War. During this war, he first supported the King's side (the Cavaliers) and then switched to support the Parliament's side (the Roundheads).
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Who Was James Lewis?
James Lewis was an important figure in Welsh politics during the 17th century. He was known for being involved in public life, even though he preferred a quiet life. People liked him because he didn't cause trouble.
Early Life and Education
James Lewis was the son of Sir John Lewis and his wife Bridget Pryse. His mother was the daughter of Sir Richard Pryse. When he was 15 years old, James went to Jesus College, Oxford in 1617 to study.
A Career in Parliament
In 1624, James Lewis was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Cardiganshire. This was for a short meeting of Parliament called the Short Parliament. He was re-elected as an MP for Cardiganshire several times:
- 1625
- 1626
- 1628
He served in Parliament until 1629. At that time, King Charles I decided to rule the country without Parliament for eleven years.
James Lewis was elected again as an MP for Cardiganshire in April 1640. This was for another Short Parliament.
The English Civil War
The English Civil War was a big conflict in England between those who supported King Charles I and those who supported Parliament.
Changing Sides
At the start of the Civil War, James Lewis supported the King's side, known as the Cavaliers. However, in 1645, he changed his support to Parliament. He became part of a committee that managed property taken from people who supported the King.
He also became a Colonel in the Parliamentary army. In December 1645, his army group helped capture a place called Newcastle Emlyn for Parliament. His army group was supposed to be stopped in March 1648, but they continued for a little longer.
After the War
After the war, some people questioned James Lewis's actions. They said he had fought for the King at first. They also said he had protected Royalists when he was on the committee. However, in March 1649, he was cleared of these accusations. This happened under a special act of pardon for South Wales.
He was re-elected as an MP for Cardiganshire in 1656. This was for the Second Protectorate Parliament.
Life After the Restoration
After the King was restored to power, James Lewis was considered for a special honor called Knight of the Royal Oak. In 1664, he became the High Sheriff of Cardiganshire. This was an important local role.
People described him as a kind and easy-going person. They said he was forced to act as a colonel for both the King and Parliament. He was often in public jobs, even though he didn't always want them. He was liked more for not doing anything wrong than for doing great things.
