John Moore (regicide) facts for kids
John Moore (born in 1599, died in 1650) was an important figure during the English Civil War. He was a colonel in the Parliamentarian army and later signed the document that led to King Charles I's execution.
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Early Life and Politics
John Moore was born in 1599 into an old noble family in England. By the early 1640s, he was a successful businessman involved in shipping, making connections as far away as Barbados. He also became a Member of Parliament for Liverpool.
Liverpool During the Civil War
When the English Civil War began in 1642, John Moore supported the Roundhead Parliamentarians. Most of Liverpool's town leaders, called burgesses, were also Parliamentarians. However, many noble families and wealthy landowners in Liverpool supported the King, becoming Cavaliers. They controlled important places like Liverpool Castle. The castle was given to Lord Derby for the King's side.
Military Victories and Setbacks
Taking Liverpool Castle
In May 1643, John Moore and his Parliamentarian soldiers attacked Liverpool Castle. They won the battle, losing only 7 men compared to the Royalists' 80 dead and 300 prisoners. After this victory, the Royalist forces in Lancashire quickly weakened. John Moore became the Governor of Liverpool and was made a Colonel in the Parliamentarian army by Oliver Cromwell. He also became Parliament's vice-admiral for the areas of Cheshire and Lancashire.
Losing and Regaining Control
Moore's control of Liverpool did not last long. On June 13, 1644, Prince Rupert of the Rhine, a Royalist leader, and his army of 10,000 soldiers attacked the city. The Parliamentarians fought bravely, causing about 1,500 Royalist deaths. However, John Moore and his remaining troops had to leave the city.
Six months later, Parliamentarian forces led by Sir John Meldrum recaptured Liverpool. John Moore was then put back in charge as governor.
Role in King Charles I's Trial
John Moore strongly supported the Parliamentarian cause. He helped organize security for the trial of King Charles I. In 1649, he was one of the people who signed the document that ordered the King's execution.
Final Years and Death
In 1649, Moore went to Ireland to fight against James Butler, 1st Duke of Ormonde. He became the governor of Dublin. Sadly, he died there in 1650 from a fever.
