John Peachell facts for kids

John Peachell (1630–1690) was an English professor and leader at Magdalene College, Cambridge. He also served as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge. This was a time when King James II was trying to control the universities.

Early Life and Education

John Peachell was born in 1630, the son of Robert Peachell from Fillingham, Lincolnshire. He went to school in Gainsborough. In 1645, he started studying at Magdalene College, Cambridge. He was a "sizar," which meant he received financial help to study.

Peachell earned several degrees: a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in 1649 and a Master of Arts (M.A.) in 1653. He later became a fellow at his college. He supported the Royalist side during the English Civil War.

Career and Church Roles

In 1663, John Peachell became the rector of Childerley, a church position in Cambridgeshire. He later moved to another rectory in Dry Drayton in 1681. He also held a church position in Stanwix in Cumberland.

Peachell became the Master of Magdalene College in 1679. This meant he was the head of the college. In 1686, he was also chosen as the Vice-Chancellor of the university. This was a very important role, as he was in charge of the whole University of Cambridge.

Conflict with King James II

During his time as Vice-Chancellor, John Peachell faced a big challenge from King James II. The King wanted to allow a Roman Catholic monk named Alban Francis to get a degree at Cambridge without taking certain oaths. These oaths were required by a law called the Test Act.

On 7 February 1687, King James II sent a letter to Cambridge. He ordered the university to admit Alban Francis without the oaths. The university leaders, including Peachell, met to discuss this. They decided that Francis should still take the oaths. Francis refused to do so.

Peachell tried to get help from powerful people, like the Duke of Albemarle and the Earl of Sunderland. But the King was determined to have his way.

Appearing Before the Commission

Because the university did not obey the King, Peachell and other university leaders were called to appear before a special court. This court was called the Ecclesiastical Commission of 1686. One of the people who had to appear was the famous scientist Isaac Newton.

On 21 April, Peachell appeared before the Commission. The head of the court, George Jeffreys, was very harsh with him. Peachell was given time to write down his answer. He explained that the university could not break its own rules and laws.

Despite his explanation, the Commission decided to punish Peachell. He was removed from both his position as Master of Magdalene College and his role as Vice-Chancellor of the university.

Later Life

After being removed, John Peachell returned to Cambridge. King James II later restored him to his position as Master of Magdalene College on 24 October 1688. However, he did not get back the Vice-Chancellorship. John Balderston took over that role.

Peachell did not live much longer after being restored as Master. He passed away in 1690 and was buried in the Magdalene College chapel on 5 February 1690.