List of MPs elected to the English Parliament in 1661 facts for kids
The Cavalier Parliament was a very important group of lawmakers in England. It met from May 8, 1661, until January 24, 1679. This Parliament was the longest in English history, lasting almost 18 years during the reign of Charles II of England.
Just like the Parliament before it, called the Convention Parliament, most of its members were Royalists. This means they strongly supported the King. It was also known as the Pensioner Parliament. This is because it gave many payments (pensions) to people who supported the King. This Parliament also brought back the Anglican Church as the official church of England.
Many Royalist members who had been stopped from being part of the Long Parliament in the 1640s were allowed to become Members of Parliament (MPs) again.
Contents
Understanding the Cavalier Parliament
The Cavalier Parliament played a big role in England after a time of great change. It helped King Charles II bring back order after the English Civil War. Its long time in power meant it saw many important events happen.
Why "Cavalier" and "Pensioner"?
The name "Cavalier" came from the English Civil War. It was used for those who supported King Charles I and later his son, Charles II. These were often wealthy landowners. They believed in the King's power and the traditional church.
The Parliament was also called the "Pensioner Parliament." This was because many of its members received money or special favors from the King. This made some people worry that the Parliament was too loyal to the King.
Bringing Back the Church of England
One of the main things this Parliament did was to restore the Anglican Church. During the time before Charles II, other forms of Protestantism had been more popular. The Cavalier Parliament made the Anglican Church the official church again. This meant that its rules and ways of worship were followed across the country.
Who Were the Members of Parliament?
Members of Parliament, or MPs, were people chosen to represent different areas of England. These areas were called constituencies. Each constituency would elect one or more MPs to speak for them in Parliament.
Changes in Parliament Members
Over the 18 years of the Cavalier Parliament, many changes happened. Some MPs passed away, and new ones were elected to take their place. Others might have left for different reasons. The list of members shows how these changes happened over time. For example, if an MP left in 1664, a new one would be chosen to replace them.
The full list of all the Members of Parliament and their changes is very long. It shows how many different people from all over England were involved in making laws.
See also
- 1661 English general election
