John Barker (Parliamentarian) facts for kids

John Barker was an English businessman and politician. He was a draper, which means he sold cloth. He was also a member of parliament (MP) in the House of Commons from 1640 to 1653. John Barker supported the Parliamentary side during the English Civil War.

Early Life and Local Politics

John Barker lived in Coventry, a city in England. He worked as a draper, selling fabrics and clothes. He was an important person in Coventry's local government. In 1634, he became the mayor of Coventry. The next year, in 1635, he became an alderman, which is a senior member of the city council.

A Member of Parliament

In November 1640, John Barker was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Coventry. He served in a very important meeting called the Long Parliament. Barker strongly supported Parliament. He and another MP, Simon Norton, even helped get a loan of £1,000 for Parliament in 1640.

Supporting Coventry in War

When the English Civil War started, John Barker showed his loyalty. In 1642, he offered £50 to help protect the city of Coventry. This was a lot of money back then! He became a colonel in the army and was made the governor of Coventry during the war. This meant he was in charge of the city's defense.

Mayor Again

In 1644, John Barker became mayor of Coventry for a second time. The person who was supposed to be mayor, George Monck, was not allowed to take the job. So, Barker stepped in.

Later Political Challenges

In 1645, Parliament decided that MPs could not hold both civil (like mayor) and military (like governor) jobs at the same time. Even though the town of Coventry asked for him to stay, John Barker had to give up his roles as mayor and governor.

Leaving and Returning to Parliament

In 1648, John Barker was removed from Parliament during an event called Pride's Purge. This was when some MPs were forced out. However, people in Coventry rioted to support him. Because of this support, he was allowed back into Parliament in October 1649. This new Parliament was known as the Rump Parliament.

End of His Political Career

Later, in May 1659, the Rump Parliament was called back together. But this time, John Barker was not allowed to rejoin. This marked the end of his time in Parliament.

Family Connections

John Barker had a daughter named Elizabeth Barker. She married William Jesson, who was also a Member of Parliament. It is thought that this John Barker might have been the same John Barker who was mayor of Coventry in 1614, or perhaps his father.