John Fleet (Lord Mayor) facts for kids
Sir John Fleet (1648 – 6 July 1712) was an important English businessman and politician. He held several big jobs in London, like being the Lord Mayor, a Sheriff, and even a Member of Parliament.
Who Was Sir John Fleet?
Sir John Fleet was born in 1648 in a town called Bourton, Buckinghamshire. His father, Richard Fleet, ran an inn. John started his career in London as a "cooper," which meant he made wooden barrels. Over time, he became a very successful sugar merchant.
A Leader in London
John Fleet became a respected leader in London's business world. In 1688, he became an alderman for the City of London. An alderman was a senior member of the city's government.
He was also chosen to lead important business groups. In 1689, he became the Master of the Coopers' Company. Later, in 1693, he became the Master of the Grocers' Company.
In 1688, he was chosen as a Sheriff of London. Sheriffs helped keep law and order in the city. Because of his important work, he was given the title "Sir" in 1688, becoming Sir John Fleet. In 1692, he reached a very high position when he was elected the Lord Mayor of London. The Lord Mayor is the head of the City of London's government.
Serving in Parliament
Sir John Fleet also served in the English Parliament. He became a Member of Parliament (MP) for the City of London in 1693. He held this job until 1700. He was then elected again for the same area in 1701 and 1702, serving until 1705. As an MP, he helped make laws for the country.
Later Life and Family
Sir John Fleet passed away in 1712. He was buried at St. Mary's Church in Battersea, London. He was married twice. With his second wife, he had three sons and four daughters, though only one son lived to adulthood.
