John Hungerford (died 1729) facts for kids
John Hungerford (born around 1658 – died 8 June 1729) was an English lawyer and politician. He was a member of the British House of Commons for many years, from 1692 until his death in 1729. He worked as a legal advisor for the British East India Company. He also defended people who were accused of supporting the Jacobites, especially after the uprising in 1715.
Early Life and Education
John Hungerford was born around 1658. His father was Richard Hungerford from Wiltshire, and his mother was Ann Price. He began studying law at Lincoln's Inn in 1677. He earned a Master of Arts degree from Cambridge University in 1683. By 1687, he had become a lawyer. He married Mary Spooner on 5 August 1687.
Political and Legal Career
John Hungerford became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Scarborough in 1692. He was very active in Parliament. He was chosen to lead a special committee for a bill about orphans. During this time, he received some money for his work on the bill. This was seen as against the rules, and he was removed from the House of Commons in 1695.
After this, Hungerford tried to get re-elected several times. He was defeated in 1695 and 1701. However, he was elected again in the 1702 English general election. He lost in 1705 but was returned as MP for Scarborough in 1707. He was then re-elected without opposition in the 1708 British general election and the 1710 British general election. In 1709, he introduced a bill to help prevent too much gambling. He was known as a "Tory patriot" and spoke out against the ongoing war.
Hungerford continued his legal work. He became a senior lawyer at Lincoln's Inn in 1707. He also served as a legal advisor for the East India Company and King's College, Cambridge.
He was re-elected without opposition in the elections of 1715, 1722, and 1727. In Parliament, he often spoke against gambling and military spending. He also defended the interests of Roman Catholics. As a lawyer, he defended people accused of supporting the Old Pretender. He was known in Parliament for his clear speaking and his good sense of humor, which helped calm difficult situations.
Later Life and Legacy
John Hungerford passed away on 8 June 1729. He did not have any children. In his will, he left gifts to King's College, Cambridge and to many of his relatives.
