Laurence Stoughton facts for kids
Sir Laurence Stoughton (1554–1615) was an important English politician from the areas of Stoughton in Surrey and West Stoke in Sussex. He played a role in the government during his time.
Sir Laurence was the son of Thomas Stoughton, who was also a Member of Parliament (MP). His brother, Adrian Stoughton, was also an MP. Sir Laurence studied law at a famous place called the Inner Temple. When his father passed away in 1576, Sir Laurence took over the family's land and properties.
Sir Laurence's Political Life
Sir Laurence Stoughton served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the town of Guildford. An MP is like a representative who speaks for the people of their area in the country's main law-making body, which was called the Parliament of England back then. He was elected to Parliament several times: in 1572, 1584, 1586, and 1593. This shows he was a trusted and active figure in politics for many years. In 1611, King James honored him by making him a knight, giving him the title "Sir."
His Family and Legacy
Sir Laurence married a woman named Rose. Her stepfather, William Hammond, was also an MP for Guildford. Sir Laurence and Rose had a very large family with 11 sons and 6 daughters! It was common for families to be large back then. Interestingly, two of his sons, George Stoughton and Nicholas Stoughton, followed in their father's footsteps and also became Members of Parliament for Guildford.
