John Baker (died 1558) facts for kids
Sir John Baker (1488–1558) was an important English politician. He worked as the Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1545 until he died. Before that, he was the Speaker of the House of Commons of England, which is a bit like being the leader of a big meeting.
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Early Life and Education
John Baker was born in 1488. His family came from a place called Cranbrook, Kent. He was the grandson of Thomas and Benet Baker, and the son of Richard and Johanne Baker.
He studied to become a lawyer around 1506. He went to a famous law school called the Inner Temple.
A Career in Government
John Baker had a long and successful career in government.
Early Roles
In 1520, he worked as an under-sheriff in London. This job involved helping with legal matters. In 1526, he became the Recorder of London, which meant he was a judge in London's courts.
Later, he became the attorney-general for the Duchy of Lancaster. This was a legal role for a special royal land area.
Becoming Attorney General
In 1536, John Baker was made the Attorney General for all of England and Wales. This was a very important legal job for the king.
By 1540, he joined the privy council. This was a group of trusted advisors to the king. He advised four different rulers: King Henry VIII, King Edward VI, Queen Mary I, and Queen Elizabeth I.
Chancellor of the Exchequer
John Baker was knighted in June 1540, which meant he was given the title "Sir." In 1545, he became the Chancellor of the Exchequer. This job meant he was in charge of the country's money. He held this important role under three monarchs: Henry VIII, Edward VI, and Mary I.
Serving in Parliament
Sir John Baker was also a member of Parliament. He represented different areas over the years:
- London (1529 and 1536)
- Guildford (1542)
- Lancaster (1545)
- Huntingdonshire (1547)
He became very well-known as the Speaker of the House in 1545 and 1547. As Speaker, he led the discussions in Parliament. He later represented Bramber (1553) and Kent (1554, 1555, and 1557).
The Nickname 'Bloody Baker'
Sir John Baker was known for being very strict with protestants during a time when religious groups often disagreed. Because of this, he earned the nickname 'Bloody Baker'.
There's a story that he was riding his horse to deal with some Protestants when he heard that Queen Mary had died. He turned back at a certain spot, and that place is now known as Baker's Cross in Kent.
Family Life
Sir John Baker was married twice. His first wife was Katherine Sackville. His second wife was Elizabeth Dineley. With Elizabeth, he had two sons and three daughters.
He owned a country home called Sissinghurst Castle in Kent. His grandfather, Thomas Baker, had bought the property.
Notable Descendants
His sons were Richard and John. His daughter Cicely married Thomas Sackville, who later became the 1st Earl of Dorset. One of their many descendants was the famous writer Vita Sackville-West. She helped restore Sissinghurst Castle and created its beautiful gardens.
Sir John Baker was also the grandfather of Sir Richard Baker, who was a historian in the 1500s.
Death
Sir John Baker passed away in London in December 1558. This was less than a month after Queen Mary died.
His burial was a very grand event in Kent in January 1559. It included many mourners, banners, torches, and a large dinner, showing how important he was.
