John Coke (died 1650) facts for kids
Sir John Coke (1607–1650) was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons of England, which is like today's Parliament, from 1640 until he died in 1650. During the English Civil War, he supported the Parliamentarian side. This means he was on the side that wanted Parliament to have more power, rather than the King.
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Early Life and Family
Sir John Coke was born in 1607. His father, also named Sir John Coke, was an important person. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) and worked as a secretary for King Charles I.
The Coke family lived at Melbourne Hall in Derbyshire. Young John Coke inherited Melbourne Hall from his father. He was also given the title of 'Sir' (knighted) while his father was still alive.
A Member of Parliament
In November 1640, Sir John Coke was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Derbyshire. He was part of a very important Parliament known as the Long Parliament. He continued to represent Derbyshire in Parliament until he passed away in 1650.
Role in the English Civil War
The English Civil War was a big conflict in England. It was fought between those who supported Parliament and those who supported King Charles I. Sir John Coke was a strong supporter of Parliament.
He was part of a special committee in Derbyshire that managed property during the war. He also helped raise money to support the Parliamentarian army, led by General Fairfax. In 1646, he helped manage the money used to send soldiers home after the fighting.
Looking After the King
Sir John Coke was one of nine special officials chosen to look after King Charles I after he was captured. The King had been handed over by the Scots. These officials stayed with the King at Holdenby House and later at Hampton Court Palace. However, the King managed to escape from Hampton Court.
Later Life and Death
After King Charles I was no longer in power, Sir John Coke traveled to Paris, France. He died there in 1650 when he was 43 years old.
Sir John Coke had married Elizabeth Willoughby in 1633. They did not have any children. His brother, Thomas Coke, became his heir and was also a Member of Parliament for Leicester.
Images for kids
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Melbourne Hall, Derbyshire, was Sir John Coke's home.
