James Stephens (MP) facts for kids

James Stephens (who died in 1683) was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like the main law-making group in England, between 1656 and 1660.

Who Was James Stephens?

James Stephens was an important person in Gloucester, England, during the 1600s. He came from a family that was also involved in politics. His father was Richard Stephens, and his brother, Nathaniel Stephens, was also a Member of Parliament (MP) for Gloucestershire in 1628.

Early Life and Local Roles

James Stephens played a big part in his local community of Gloucester before he became a national politician. He held several important jobs that helped run the city.

Serving Gloucester as Sheriff and Mayor

Stephens served as the Sheriff of Gloucester in 1639 and again in 1643. A sheriff was a very important local official, like a chief law enforcement officer and administrator for the county or city. He helped keep order and manage local government.

He was also a member of a special group called the Grand Inquest. This group looked into the damage caused by a siege in July 1646 during the First English Civil War. A siege is when an army surrounds a city to try and take control of it.

Later, from 1649 to 1650, James Stephens was the Mayor of Gloucester. The mayor is the head of the city government, responsible for leading the city and its people.

A Career in Parliament

After serving in local government, James Stephens moved on to national politics, becoming a Member of Parliament. This meant he helped make laws for the whole country.

Representing Gloucester in London

In November 1656, James Stephens became a Member of Parliament for Gloucester. He joined the Second Protectorate Parliament. He was chosen after another elected person, John Desborough, decided to represent a different area.

Stephens was re-elected as MP for Gloucester in 1659, serving in the Third Protectorate Parliament. This shows that the people of Gloucester trusted him to represent their interests. On April 5, 1660, he was also made a captain in the local army group, known as the militia regiment of foot, in Gloucester. He was elected MP for Gloucester again in April 1660, this time for the Convention Parliament.

His Later Years

James Stephens passed away in 1683. He was buried at St Nicholas' Church on November 9, 1683.