John Blackaller facts for kids
John Blackaller (born around 1494 – died January 1563) was an important English leader from Exeter, Devon. He served as both the Mayor of Exeter and a Member (MP) for Exeter.
Blackaller was born in Totnes in 1494. He was a Catholic. He married Joan Hockemore in 1529 or earlier. They had at least one daughter, who married William Peryam. William Peryam also became Mayor of Exeter in 1532, showing that his family was important in the city's leadership.
Public Service and Leadership
John Blackaller was a Member (MP) in the Parliament of England for Exeter in 1529. This meant he helped make laws for the country. He was also chosen to be the Mayor of Exeter three times: from 1530 to 1531, from 1536 to 1537, and again from 1548 to 1549. Being mayor was a very important job, like leading the city. He passed away in January 1563 and was buried on January 21, 1563.
The Prayer Book Rebellion
During John Blackaller's last time as Mayor of Exeter in 1549, a big event called the Prayer Book Rebellion happened. This rebellion started because of new religious changes under King Edward VI. The King introduced the first Book of Common Prayer, which changed how people practiced Catholicism.
Uprisings began in places like Sampford Courtenay and Clyst St Mary. The rebels built defenses and blocked roads. A knight named Peter Carew was sent to stop the uprising. He wasn't successful, but he did warn Blackaller about the danger. This allowed Exeter to get ready for a fight. The city even canceled its midsummer eve celebrations, which usually included checking the city's defenses.
The rebel leaders tried to convince Blackaller to give up the city. They sent him many messages. Even though Blackaller was Catholic and might have agreed with some of the rebels' ideas, he strongly refused to surrender. His loyalty to the King and his duty to protect Exeter were more important than his personal religious beliefs. Because of this, people later praised him for being brave and heroic.
About 2,000 rebel men gathered outside Exeter's city gates. They started a siege that lasted for five weeks. Blackaller's leadership helped the city hold out during this difficult time.
