John Blakiston facts for kids
John Blakiston (born around 1603 – died 1649) was an important person in English history. He was a Member of Parliament, which means he helped make laws for the country. He was also one of the people who decided the fate of King Charles I of England. Besides his political roles, he was a successful merchant who sold fabrics (a mercer) and coal. He was also a puritan, a type of Christian who wanted to make changes to the Church of England.
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Early Life and Beliefs
John Blakiston was born in 1603 in a place called Sedgefield, in County Durham, England. He was the third son of Marmaduke Blakiston, who was a church leader in York and Durham.
In 1626, John Blakiston married Susan Chamber. He strongly supported Puritans who were moving to America, even though he himself stayed in England. These Puritans were looking for more religious freedom.
Standing Up for His Beliefs
In 1636, John Blakiston had a big disagreement with a church leader named Yeldard Alvey in Newcastle. Blakiston believed Alvey's ideas about religion were wrong. However, Alvey had the support of a powerful church leader, Archbishop William Laud. Because of this, Blakiston faced consequences: he had to pay a fine and was temporarily removed from the church.
A Role in Parliament
John Blakiston became a member of parliament for Newcastle. He was part of the Long Parliament, which was a very important parliament in English history. He started sharing his ideas about how the country should be run, suggesting that England should be a republic (a country without a king). He officially took his seat in Parliament in 1641.
In 1645, he was chosen to be the Mayor of Newcastle, which is a very important leadership role in a city. He also held other important positions, like being in charge of measuring coal in Newcastle.
The King's Trial
John Blakiston was chosen to be one of the judges for the trial of King Charles I. This was a very serious and unusual event in English history. He was present at every part of the trial.
A Big Decision
In January 1649, as a judge in the High Court of Justice, John Blakiston was one of the 59 people who signed the document that led to King Charles I's execution. His signature was the 12th on this important document.
Later Life and Legacy
John Blakiston died in June 1649. After the king's son, Charles II, returned to power in 1660 during the Stuart Restoration, Blakiston's property was taken by the government.
