John Button (Parliamentarian) facts for kids

John Button (died 1665) was an English politician who lived a long time ago, in the 1600s. He was from a place called Buckland, near Lymington in Hampshire. John Button was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's Parliament where laws are made. He served there at different times between 1625 and 1648. He was also involved in the English Civil War, fighting on the side of the Parliament.

Early Life and Family

John Button was the son of another man named John Button, who lived in Upavon, Wiltshire. When his father passed away in 1601, John Button inherited his family's property. Later, in 1624, he also inherited Buckland in Hampshire from his uncle Henry.

What is a High Sheriff?

In 1636, John Button was given an important job called High Sheriff of Hampshire. A High Sheriff was a very old and respected position. They were responsible for keeping law and order in their county. This included making sure trials happened fairly and that laws were followed.

Political Career

John Button became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Lymington in 1625. An MP is someone chosen by the people to represent them in Parliament. They help make decisions for the country.

Serving in the Long Parliament

He was elected MP for Lymington again in November 1640. This time, he served in a very important Parliament known as the Long Parliament. It was called "Long" because it lasted for many years, much longer than usual.

Role in the English Civil War

The 1640s were a time of great conflict in England, known as the English Civil War. This was a war between the King and Parliament. John Button fought on the side of Parliament, also known as the Roundheads. He held local positions and was even the Captain of Hurst Castle from 1643 to 1645. Hurst Castle was an important fortress by the sea.

What Happened in 1648?

In 1648, John Button was removed from Parliament during an event called Pride's Purge. This was when some members of the army, led by Colonel Thomas Pride, stopped certain MPs from entering Parliament. This happened because they disagreed with how Parliament was handling things after the Civil War.

Family Life

John Button married Eleanor South as his first wife. She was the daughter of Thomas South from South Baddesley. Their son, also named John, later followed in his father's footsteps and became an MP for Lymington too.