John Zouche (died 1585) facts for kids
John Zouche (born around 1515 – died May 30, 1585) was an English politician from Ansty, Wiltshire. He was an important figure in local government during the reigns of several English monarchs.
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John Zouche's Family Life
John Zouche was the younger son of John, the 8th Baron Zouche. A Baron is a noble title, meaning his family was part of the upper class. His mother was Dorothy Capell.
Before 1545, John Zouche married Catherine St Leger. Catherine was the daughter of Sir George St Leger. She had previously been married to George Courtenay. John and Catherine had three or four sons together, including Francis Zouche, who also became a Member of Parliament (MP). Catherine's son from her first marriage, Sir William Courtenay, was an ancestor of the current Earl of Devon.
John Zouche's Career and Public Service
Becoming a Knight
On November 10, 1549, John Zouche was made a knight. This was a special honor given by the King or Queen for service to the country.
Working for the Royal Family
John Zouche worked as a "bailiff" for Thomas Seymour, Baron Seymour of Sudeley. A bailiff was a person who managed land or property for someone important. Thomas Seymour was a "courtier," meaning he spent a lot of time at the royal court. He was also the uncle of King Edward VI and the husband of Queen Katherine Parr.
Owning Land in Ansty
In 1541, John Zouche began to rent a large estate called the manor of Ansty in Wiltshire. By 1546, this manor was officially given to him. He received it because of his services to the Crown and after paying £100. This land had once belonged to a religious military order called the Knights Hospitaller.
Serving in Parliament
John Zouche was a Member of Parliament (MP) for two different areas. He represented Hindon in 1547 and Shaftesbury in 1559. An MP is a person elected to represent a specific area in the Parliament, which is where laws are made.
Political Standing During Different Reigns
During the time Queen Mary I ruled England, John Zouche was not as favored by the Crown. His stepson, William Courtenay, was known for disagreeing with the Queen's government.
However, when Elizabeth I became Queen, John Zouche was very happy. He then took on important roles in local government. This shows he was a trusted and responsible leader in his community during Queen Elizabeth's reign.
